1 July 2009
The Australian Council of Social Service has urged the Minister for Housing Tanya Plibersek along with state and territory governments to swiftly implement the Federal Government’s white paper strategy on homelessness, The Road Home.
“ACOSS is a strong supporter of the Government’s commitment of $800 million to fund homelessness services which was made in December 2009. This is a critical program to help get people off the streets and ensure more Australians have secure housing,” said Clare Martin, CEO, Australian Council of Social Service.
“We are concerned progress has stalled and final agreements are still to be signed off. Preventing homelessness before it begins is a key plank of The Road Home. The sooner people at risk of homelessness can access early intervention programs and integrated services the more protection they will have.”
“As the winter cold sets in it is vital that rough sleepers have somewhere warm to sleep. Frontline services are reporting an increase in homelessness and crisis services are under greater strain.”
“An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report recently showed 59% of people who sought crisis accommodation were turned away from services in 2007-2008.”
Media Contact: Clare Cameron, ACOSS – 0419 626 155