- Federal Government renews $67.5 million funding for homelessness services' wage support
- Over 200 support staff in Victoria to continue their crucial work, with $23.5 million allocated for their wages
- The decision comes amid a 24% increase in homelessness in Victoria over the past five years
The Federal Government has renewed its $67.5 million funding for homelessness services which was due to expire in June.
The funding will help to ensure a range of programs aimed at helping Australians who are struggling to find a place to live, will continue.
Housing Minister Julie Collins confirmed on Friday that the funding, which covers wage costs would continue.
Workers can continue to help
Deborah Di Natale, CEO of the Council to Homeless Persons, said, “This is a welcome decision which ensures about 200 homelessness support staff will be able to continue their invaluable work in Victoria.”
Di Natale also said that the renewed funding will allocate $23.5 million to support wages for Victorian homelessness workers.
The decision to continue federal funding comes at a crucial time, as official Census data reveals a 24% increase in homelessness in Victoria over the past five years. Over 30,600 people are currently homeless in the state, emphasizing the importance of robust support services.
Di Natale said, “This decision means that services can provide life-changing support that allows people to find homes, support families, and build their lives free from violence. We congratulate Minister Collins for listening to the voices of this female-dominated workforce, which is overwhelmingly on modest incomes. This decision will help workers assist thousands of Victorians who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of doing so.”
Needed to address the housing crisis
Homelessness Australia also welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to address the $67.5 million funding shortfall.
Kate Colvin, CEO of Homelessness Australia said, “This housing crisis is the worst in living memory, but homelessness organizations want to partner with the government to fix it. That’s why this commitment is so important. It allows us to continue our important work and know that we have the security to do so.”
The current housing crisis, which has seen surging rents and record-low vacancy rates, has already put immense pressure on homelessness services.
Ms Colvin said, “It is reassuring to know the government is alive to this and is committed to resourcing the effort.”
“On behalf of everyone working to deliver homelessness support and security, we thank the government for listening to our concerns and taking action.”
