The homelessness crisis in Victoria has reached alarming levels, with almost one million people at risk, a 67% increase since 2016, according to the Call Unanswered report by Impact Economics. Compounding the issue, bushfire warnings across the state have highlighted the vulnerability of those experiencing homelessness, particularly in remote areas.
The Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) is urging the Victorian Government to invest $5 million in additional outreach infrastructure to prevent potential tragedies this summer. The urgency is heightened as the Rough Sleeping Action Plan, which provides some outreach services, is set to expire in June 2025.
CHP CEO Deborah Di Natale warned:
“With insufficient funding, services are unable to meet demand, leaving people to fall through widening cracks during one of the worst rental crises in history.”
Rental stress has increased 23.1% statewide since 2021, with Melbourne experiencing a 27.2% rise. Overburdened services have been forced to turn away nearly 30% of those seeking help, leaving many without support during a time of crisis.
Dr Angela Jackson, author of the report, underscored the immediate need for action:
“We need to address structural issues but also increase support today to deal with the current crisis.”
For more information, visit Council to Homeless Persons.
Elements of this story was originally reported by RPP FM and repurposed by STPL News with permission.
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