On the streets: a year of living dangerously

When MATTHEW STEBBINGS met Stew, he was struck by the similarities – both of them young white males in their early 20s who came to Melbourne fairly recently – and the contrasts. Stew talked about his homelessness and some of issues that make his difficult life even harder, for this illuminating, if sometimes discomfiting, photo series. 

Aged by circumstance: Though only 23 years old, almost a year of living rough has caused Stew to age beyond his years.

Traveling light: Stew came to Melbourne with very few possessions. Those, and the few he has collected since, he carries in bags as he walks the streets.  

Sleeping rough: It’s rare that Stew finds himself with a bed to sleep in and is thus forced to sleep on the streets most nights.

Ignored by most: Stew struggles with a number of difficulties in his life which mean that he has a very hard time finding and holding down a job, he is forced to spend most days in the streets asking strangers for money to live.

Hungry: Stew prioritises spending what little money he does have on his addictions rather than on food, meaning his diet mostly consists of cheap fast food.

Alone: Like many homeless people in Melbourne, Stew struggles with metal health difficulties which he self-medicates with drugs and alcohol, coupled with a complicated and tough family life. Stew feels that he is very much alone in the world.

Hopeful: Despite his situation, Stew takes full responsibility for his actions and knows that he needs to make changes in order to get back on track, though he does not know if he is ready to accept the help he needs, or is even capable of doing so.

Unimpressed: When asked about the circumstances that led him to leave home and come to Melbourne, Stew becomes annoyed. It is clear the question makes him uncomfortable.

Wandering the streets: Stew will often wander the streets for hours. He says it helps to clear his head.

Thoughtful: When asked if he thinks he’ll ever return home or see his father again, Stew pauses, deep in thought, before simply saying, “No”.