With the launch of National Homelessness Week today, the Albanese Government is reaffirming its commitment to deliver an ambitious housing reform agenda, including a new National Housing and Homelessness Plan.
One of the key goals of the Plan will be to identify ways to improve outcomes for Australians at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.
The Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness, Julie Collins MP, said the Albanese Government is working closely with state and territory governments to boost social and affordable housing and homelessness services.
“Following a very productive meeting with state and territory Housing Ministers last month, governments at all levels have pledged to work together to make a difference to the lives of vulnerable Australians,” Minister Collins said.
“This year’s theme is to end homelessness we need a plan, and our plan will address the complex challenges facing our housing system ‑ from homelessness to increasing supply of social and affordable housing.”
A key component of the Albanese Government’s housing reform agenda is the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund, the returns of which will deliver 30,000 social and affordable homes within its first five years.
Investment returns will also fund acute housing needs including $100 million for crisis and transitional housing options for women and children fleeing family and domestic violence, and older women on low incomes at risk of homelessness and $30 million for specialist services for veterans who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
The fund will also provide $200 million for the repair, maintenance and improvements of housing in remote Indigenous communities.
“According to the 2016 Census, in Australia there are over 116,000 people experiencing homelessness, and this figure is unacceptable. Of these, over 51,000 were homelessness due to severe overcrowding and 8,200 were rough sleepers.” Minister Collins said.
“Our reforms aim to ensure every Australian has access to safe and affordable housing to improve social and economic outcomes for all Australians, including those at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.”
More information about National Homelessness Week, and how to get involved, can be found on the Homelessness Australia website.