Four people sleeping rough on the Mornington Peninsula have died in just over six weeks, raising renewed concerns about homelessness, limited crisis accommodation and housing shortages across the region.
The deaths were revealed in a Guardian Australia investigation published on 17 October. Three of those who died were men, with ages ranging from 36 to 65.
The deaths have renewed attention on the challenges facing Mornington Peninsula rough sleepers, including limited emergency accommodation and access to permanent housing.
Eleven Homelessness Deaths Recorded Since December 2024
An October report by Launch Housing revealed 11 deaths among people known to the Mornington Peninsula Zero homelessness response since December 2024, including three in September 2026.
The report, From Rough Sleeping to Sustained Housing, also revealed:
- 100 people were recorded sleeping rough as of 30 September 2026.
- 150 people remained active on the local homelessness By Name List.
- 340 people had been identified since December 2024.
- 68 housing outcomes had been achieved during that period.
The figures highlight continuing demand for homelessness services and permanent housing across the Peninsula.
Mornington Peninsula Rough Sleepers Face Housing Shortage
Mornington Peninsula Shire reports approximately 1,300 social housing dwellings, compared with 2,624 applicants on the housing waiting list as of 30 June 2025.
Council has also identified limited crisis accommodation and insufficient support services to meet local demand.
In August, STPL News reported a 32 per cent increase in rough sleeping, with Mayor Stephen Batty warning that the number of people affected could be higher than official figures suggested.
Government Funding and Calls for More Housing
In July, the Victorian Government announced $2.1 million over four years to fund two dedicated homelessness outreach workers on the Mornington Peninsula.
Cr Batty welcomed the funding but called for further investment.
“Today’s announcement is encouraging, but it must be the beginning rather than the end,” Cr Batty said.
In September, the government announced a further $24.8 million statewide homelessness plan, including expanded outreach and assistance for people seeking stable housing.
Launch Housing has called for greater investment in permanent supported accommodation through a Housing First approach, combining suitable housing with ongoing support.
With the Victorian state election scheduled for 28 November, Mornington Peninsula Shire continues to advocate for increased social and affordable housing, crisis accommodation and homelessness support services.
Further reading: Launch Housing Insights 2026 | Mornington Peninsula Shire homelessness information
