Thousands of vulnerable people are being supported to secure or maintain housing as Homelessness Week begins, with the NSW Government reinforcing its commitment to prevent and respond to homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Alister Henskens said Homelessness Week is an opportunity to share the stories of people who have overcome enormous challenges in their life and are now living in secure housing.
“Our record investments to break the cycle of homelessness have helped thousands of vulnerable people rebuild their lives,” Mr Henskens said.
“We’ve expanded outreach across the state to engage with rough sleepers more often and have built robust pathways for people to secure housing and stay off the streets for good.
“We’re working hard to increase housing supply and continue to invest in housing solutions for people to maintain or secure tenancies in the private rental market.”
The NSW Government’s Together Home program has helped more than 460 people who were previously sleeping rough into housing. These people are now receiving support services to address their individual needs and help them rebuild their lives.
During the latest COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney, the NSW Government has ramped up services and support, and invested an additional $10 million to increase rent assistance packages such as Rent Choice Start Safely and Rent Choice Youth.
“Whether it’s people who are sleeping on our streets, people couch surfing or people living in insecure housing, we are working tirelessly to bolster services and support for those most in need,” Mr Henskens said.
“These support packages provide people with a roof over their head and the support they need to live independently.”
Anyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness can call Link2home on 1800 152 152. Staff are available 24-7 to provide information and referrals to services, including temporary accommodation.
Download media release: Preventing and responding to homelessness PDF, 157.01 KB
