Homelessness Week 2026 will run from 3-9 August under the national theme “Homelessness Action Now”, with the City of Fremantle shining a spotlight on both immediate support initiatives and long-term solutions to address homelessness across the community.
While homelessness is often associated with people sleeping rough, it also includes those living in unsafe, insecure or inadequate housing. People experiencing homelessness come from all walks of life, and the causes are often complex, involving a combination of social, economic and health-related factors.
Throughout Homelessness Week, the City will showcase how local government, community organisations, businesses and residents can work together to prevent homelessness, strengthen social connections and support vulnerable community members.
Local Action Making a Difference
A key event during the week will be the ‘Local Insights, Local Solutions’ Homelessness Week Panel Session, taking place on Thursday 6 August, bringing together experts and community leaders to discuss practical responses to homelessness in Fremantle.
The City has an ongoing program called Library Connect, in collaboration with St Pat’s Community Support Centre (St Pat’s), that places a community support worker at the Fremantle Library, providing free advice, referrals and support in a safe and welcoming drop-in environment.
Other City of Fremantle initiatives include:
- Access to tenant advocacy services through the Fremantle Community Legal Centre
- Fremantle Community Support Map, which provides a comprehensive list of local support services
- Promotion of WA Rent Relief Program, recently extended to June 2027, offering one-off payments to eligible tenants at risk of tenancy termination due to rent arrears
- Partnerships with Imagined Futures, St Pat’s Community Support Centre, and Homeless Healthcare to focus on early intervention and compassionate responses to homelessness in the local area.
- The proposed St Pat’s Respite Centre and community engagement activities opening during Homelessness Week
