Homelessness

Homelessness is defined as when a person is left without a conventional home and lacks the economic and social supports that a home normally affords. He/she is often cut off from the support of relatives and friends, and has few independent resources. Often the person has no immediate means and in some cases, little prospect of independence.

Homelessness is not defined by those living in boxes, under bridges, or on subway grates. Homelessness is defined by a loss of one's environment.

Victoria has an integrated homelessness and housing system which is designed as a progressive pathway out of homelessness. The Victorian Government funds and supports not-for-profit organisations to assist people to find housing, reconnect with the community and re-build their lives.

A number of reforms came about from the 2002 Victorian Homelessness Strategy.

In 2008, the Federal Government released its much-anticipated White Paper and made halving homelessness by 2020 a national priority.

Homelessness 2020

Victoria is now formulating a new ten-year strategy, Homelessness 2020.  A discussion paper has been released and seeks feedback from a broad cross section of stakeholders about how to help people experiencing homelessness transition to independence and participate more fully in the social and economic life of Victoria.   Submissions are due by Friday 27 November 2009.