New Approach To Reduce Homelessness For Victorians

  • Treasurer

Nearly 60 Victorians experiencing chronic homelessness have moved into stable housing, thanks to an innovative partnership led by the Andrews Labor Government.

The Journey to Social Inclusion program is a joint project with Sacred Heart Mission, supported by NAB, which aims to deliver long-term housing and improved health and wellbeing outcomes for vulnerable Victorians.

It is expected the program will support 180 people over five years and is one of the Partnerships Addressing Disadvantage that bring together public, private and not-for-profit sectors to improve social outcomes.

A case study outlining the structure of the program’s new innovative low-cost financing model has just been released – highlighting future opportunities for Government, service providers, philanthropists and other investors.

The Labor Government is investing in housing and homelessness services at record levels.

This includes 1,000 new public housing properties over the next three years and 500 new affordable rental properties delivered in 2019 through the $1 billion Social Housing Growth Fund.

An additional $153.8 million over the next five years will be invested into homelessness services.

This will see more on-site treatment services in crisis-supported accommodation, private rental assistance for over 6,000 Victorians who need it and the continuation of state-wide homelessness after-hours crisis services.

As stated by Treasurer Tim Pallas

“We’re proud to be growing impact investing in Victoria – we’re thinking outside the box to improve outcomes for vulnerable Victorians.”

“Innovative financing models allow public funding to go further – and to do more to help those who need it.”

As stated by Minister for Housing Richard Wynne

“Everyone deserves a safe and secure home – and we’re trialling new programs like this one to ensure more Victorians have a roof over their heads.”

As stated by Sacred Heart Mission General Manager Catherine Harris

“We need innovative approaches to financing social programs, if we’re going to have any chance of breaking the cycle of homelessness once and for all.”

As stated by NAB Division Chief David Gall

“This is financial innovation of the best kind because the end result is more tangible help for vulnerable people in our society.”

/Public Release. View in full here.