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Homelessness NSW, the state peak for Specialist Homelessness Services, today welcomed the steps taken by the Berejiklian Government to address the risks for people experiencing and at risk of homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Katherine McKernan, CEO of Homelessness NSW, said “This crisis will affect us all, no matter who we are. But the better prepared we are to support those most at risk, the better the outcome for not only vulnerable people but also the health system and the broader community.”
NSW has the highest numbers of people sleeping rough, and people experiencing homelessness in Australia. This community is extremely vulnerable to impacts of COVID-19, as they are more likely to experience mental ill health or physical ill-health, including chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease and much more.
“This government must have a laser-like focus on a safe, prepared and well-resourced homelessness sector, alongside housing for those who need it. There must be no delay.
“The funding announced today will enable the sector to really act to provide accommodation for those experiencing and at risk of homelessness who need it to stay healthy and well”
The announcement today of $34 million aims to act as a ‘boost to prevent homelessness’, alongside $10 million in support for charities, likely for OzHarvest and Foodbank, and $6 million for Lifeline’s operations in NSW.
“But for the government to get us through the worst, we also need to ensure frontline workers are safe, and have the appropriate advice and gear to stay safe and keep delivering services to our most vulnerable”.
“We need to see this government prepare for the next wave of vulnerability that has already begun as job loss grows. This means putting a moratorium on evictions, stopping rent increases, and resourcing services to support those who are already starting to appear on our streets.
Homelessness NSW is calling on government to:
December 7, 2021
Homelessness NSW is one of 33 organisations that have urged the NSW government to to stop chasing people to pay Covid fines, due to being issued incorrectly and disproportionately penalising Indigenous Australians, people experiencing homelessness and people living with a disability.