The number of Australians experiencing long-term homelessness has surged almost 25% over the last five years, according to new statistics viewed as alarming by advocacy groups. The Productivity Commission's latest report on government services indicates close to 37,780 people experienced what is defined as "persistent homelessness" during the 2023-24 period, up from 30,306 individuals from 2019-20. Defined as being homeless for over seven months within the preceding two years, this statistic reveals the severity of the issue impacting Australia.
Kate Colvin, chief executive of the advocacy group Homelessness Australia, called the findings "grim," emphasizing the increasing number of Australians trapped in long-term homelessness. "More Australians than ever are trapped in long-term homelessness, and even those who find housing are struggling to maintain it without adequate support," she stated. The report uncovered not just the harsh realities of those suffering from homelessness but also highlighted some positive trends showing the effectiveness of early intervention.
The report shows promising results with 80.9% of at-risk clients successfully avoiding homelessness when they sought help, demonstrating the importance of timely support services. Colvin stressed, "The high success rate in preventing homelessness shows early intervention is effective. With sustained investment in support services, we can prevent people from cycling back to homelessness and lay down the foundations for healthy, functional lives." This aligns with calls for more secure homelessness funding, especially as the Albanese Government highlights its recent investments in social and affordable housing.
Part of the government’s strategy, launched under the $10 billion housing future fund established following prolonged negotiations between Labor and the Greens, involves releasing data of 12 new projects comprising 800 dwellings. Minister for Housing, Clare O’Neil, expressed confidence stating, "Every single one of these dwellings is more than just a roof over someone’s head – it’s the foundation for building a more prosperous life." This first round of funding is expected to yield more than 13,000 new dwellings, forming part of the larger goal of 55,000.
Despite these advancements, the report reveals troubling statistics about the return to homelessness. About 10.3% of clients who secured housing through homelessness services during 2023-24 returned to homelessness, affecting almost 14,740 individuals who lost their homes after prior successes. Each day, around 208 people actively seek accommodation and are turned away. Annually, this translates to over 53,292 people – one-third of all individuals requiring accommodation – receiving no housing assistance at all.
Colvin observed, "We know what works; we just have to resource it properly." She reiterated the importance of bolstering support for individuals experiencing homelessness, calling it the responsibility of all stakeholders, especially the government. The need for continued advocacy grows stronger, particularly as the homelessness crisis deepens and the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are still felt across many communities.
The urgency for systemic change has never been clearer as advocates continue to push for policies focusing on prevention, long-term housing stability, and enhanced support services. The Coalition government’s opposition to key funding initiatives, such as the housing future fund, has compounded the challenges facing vulnerable populations.
With elections approaching, analysts predict the topic of housing and homelessness will remain at the forefront of political discussions. The remarks made by Colvin and the housing minister affirm the increasing awareness about the dire need for effective homelessness solutions, which may compel the government to reconsider its housing strategies moving forward.