National Homelessness Week (August 7-13, 2023) is an annual initiative aimed at highlighting the challenges faced by people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness in our community.
2021 Census data revealed an estimated 122,494 people experiencing homelessness across Australia with Yarra Ranges also experiencing an estimated 756 people residing in improvised or crowded dwellings, caravan parks or sleeping rough on the night of the census.
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Jim Child said that In response to this growing concern, Council is taking steps to advocate for more robust state and federal support services to prevent and address homelessness in the region.
“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to advocating for increased services and better resources to support and prevent homelessness. We recognise that success requires collective efforts from all stakeholders and all levels of government,” said Mayor Jim Child.
“Through our grant programs, we make a contribution to fill the gaps in this service area, funding community-led responses to homelessness; since 2018 we have provided over $1.2m in grants to community groups responding to homelessness, and committed a further $780k so far, to support their vital and effective work in supporting those in the community who really need it.”
Council works closely with local groups, such as Anchor Community Care, that provide invaluable on-the-ground support to individuals experiencing housing-related stress and homelessness and Council’s partnerships program has funded Anchor’s Rapid Response program.
Over the last four years, the Rapid Response program has provided over 300 periods of support to rough sleepers in the Yarra Ranges, and the most recent funding agreement extends its operations until 2026.
Beyond providing critical support, the program is also expected to enhance data collection efforts, leading to a more accurate understanding of the extent of homelessness in the region.
Talia Appleby, Senior Worker of the Rapid Response program, says the program supports rough sleepers with basic needs.
“The program enables Anchor to meet the most immediate needs of people sleeping rough with food, clothing, and in-place health care, as well as important access to health, mental health, alcohol and drug addiction services, and other wellbeing needs.”
“It is also hoped that data collected will give police, ambulance, and crisis services a better idea of individuals’ locations, safety status, and health needs in times of emergency such as bushfire and flood events.”
As part of National Homelessness Week, Yarra Ranges Council invites community members to participate in a special event hosted by the Yarra Ranges Housing Action Group, scheduled for August 7.
Guests will hear from a range of local community groups and Council will launch its revised Homelessness Protocol. The Protocol, outlines a unified and holistic approach to addressing homelessness, including information and referral, community safety, advocacy, and support.
While Council does not undertake case management directly, its staff maintain a duty of care to respond to homelessness situations with empathy and a comprehensive approach.
During National Homelessness Week and beyond, Yarra Ranges residents are encouraged to support local crisis relief agencies responding to the needs of the community. Those able to contribute their time, money, or resources can find a relevant agency close to them by visiting Council’s community relief website here.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing or at risk of homelessness, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Housing Victoria Hotline at 1800 825 955 for assistance and support.
