you may be able to get living away from home allowance or the doll, it is bugger all but provides enough to survive with no luxeries. I was in a little bit of a better position because I got a small compensation payout when my mother was charged and my friends helped me with accomodation and getting a job. It's a very horrible learning experience you are going through but you have to learn to stand on your own feet. You have to ask for help(like you have here). Good luck and hang in there. Get a job. After that, you'll have money to move out, or like what happens to some kids, now you have income you'd be invited to stay as long as you pay board. My parents wanted me out, then when I got a job, they really really wanted me to stay, pay $100 p/w board and help with house work. I moved out as soon as a could, but getting a rental and sharing with strangers or friends sucks more! edit: Are you getting any payments from the gov directly, or is your mum getting anything? Maybe you aren't getting any money, and she hasn't on your behalf ever since you passes 16 y/o and finished school. It was a long time ago for me and I don't know what you are able to claim, or if you are getting anything. But I think that was the reason why my parents wanted me out, but