Australia faces a growing crisis of long-term homelessness, with new data revealing a 25% increase in the number of people experiencing persistent homelessness. The report highlights the urgent need for affordable housing and increased funding for support services.
New data reveals a concerning rise in long-term homelessness among Australians, with the number surging by over 25 percent. The Productivity Commission's report on government services for 2023-24 highlights a stark reality: 37,779 people experienced persistent homelessness during this period. This means individuals who remain homeless for more than seven months within a two-year span. Alarmingly, over one in five individuals seeking support services fall under this category.
The report underscores the devastating impact of the housing shortage and the escalating cost of living crisis. It paints a picture of a society grappling with an urgent need for affordable housing options. The data reveals that 53,292 people sought accommodation throughout the year, yet a staggering one in three received no housing assistance. This crisis isn't confined to physical shelter; it encompasses a lack of security, privacy, and stability. The report categorizes homelessness into two types: primary, which involves lacking a physical shelter, and secondary, which encompasses individuals forced to move between various accommodations due to instability. The federal government has pledged to fund at least 55,000 social and affordable homes as part of its housing policy agenda. However, concerns persist about the allocation and effectiveness of existing funds. A $5.3 billion social housing fund launched in Victoria four years ago has sparked questions about its impact. Advocacy groups like Everybody's Home are calling for sustained investment in homelessness services, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions to address this growing crisis.
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