When Marli entered Nest in early 2023, she had a newborn, and a quiet determination to create a better future for them both.
After experiencing family and domestic violence, Marli made the brave decision to leave the family home. It was not an easy choice, but her child’s wellbeing came first. With nowhere stable to go, she entered Nest supported accommodation, a program that supports young families facing homelessness and housing instability.
At the same time, Marli was navigating something many new parents never expect. Her baby had significant medical needs. There were hospital visits, specialist appointments, surgery, and ongoing follow-ups. Days were spent in waiting rooms and hospital wards.
Today, looking at her child, you would not know the number of long days and emotional moments Marli managed behind the scenes. Those who supported her saw it clearly. The deep care and determination of a mother doing everything she could for her child.
Rebuilding, Step by Step
Marli’s first Nest home was north of the river in Perth. It provided stability, but it also left her far away from the people and supports she relied on. The isolation began to take a toll and her mental health suffered.
When an opportunity came to transfer to a Nest property south of the river, closer to her support networks, things slowly began to change. Marli started reconnecting with community, rebuilding her confidence, and imagining a future that felt possible again.
But the road to stability was not straightforward.
Like many young people experiencing housing insecurity in Western Australia, Marli was waiting for social housing. Despite being placed on the priority waitlist, the wait stretched on.
When the Nest property she was living in was scheduled for redevelopment and needed to be vacated by the end of 2025, uncertainty returned. She had just begun working toward new goals and building connections in her community.
Returning to the family home was not a secure option.
Community Support When It Matters Most
Through collaboration between Nest and Youth Place, Marli was able to transition into short-term accommodation while continuing to receive Nest Outreach support as she waited for a permanent home.
Then, in February 2026, after four years of navigating housing services and uncertainty, the news finally came.
Marli had been allocated stable, long-term housing.
With the help of a generous donation from Emily Hamilton, Nest was able to cover Marli’s rent in advance, and some household items, easing financial pressure during the move. Her much-loved dog was also able to rejoin the family, bringing comfort and joy to their new home.
Looking Toward the Future
Today, Marli and her child are settling into their new home.
With the stability of secure housing, Marli can now focus on the future. She plans to enrol her child in childcare, obtain her driver’s licence, consistently access mental health support, and work toward study and employment.
For the past three years, Nest has walked alongside Marli through some of the most challenging moments of her life. As she moves forward, Youth Place will continue supporting her next steps.
Marli’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering love for her child.
This new home represents something powerful.
It is more than just a place to live.
It is a foundation for the future she is building - one filled with safety, stability and hope.