The Andrews Labor Government has called on Malcolm Turnbull to commit to the National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness.
Speaking at the launch of the Council to Homeless Person’s July edition of its magazine Parity, Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley said homelessness is a problem that isn’t going away and it was time for national understanding on a plan to end homelessness.
This month’s Parity focuses on the role of community development in responding to homelessness, especially given the recent spotlight on the increasing numbers of rough sleepers in Melbourne’s CBD.
In order to ensure the safety and well-being of people sleeping rough during the recent cold weather, the Labor Government has provided $1.6 million in additional funding to ensure pathways to housing and support are available for anyone sleeping rough in Melbourne and across the State.
The Government is also working on the implementation of our $152 million housing blitz, in response to the Royal Commission to ensure women and children escaping family violence have a greater range of options for accommodation.
In Melton, the Government is investing $1.2 million through the Accommodation for the Homeless initiative for Hope Street Youth and Family Services to construct a youth refuge in Melton.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“For nearly 30 years Parity has led the charge in the battle against homelessness, both with ideas and concrete solutions – it’s great to be part of this edition.”
“We are investing in homelessness support to come up with solutions both short and long term and we need the Federal Government to commit itself to what is a national challenge.”
“It’s time Malcolm Turnbull provided leadership and recommitted to the National Partnership and reinstated the national rough sleeping target.”
Quote attributable to Member for Melton Don Nardella
“The crisis accommodation to be built in Melton will help address the needs of our area’s rapidly growing youth population.”
“It will ensure local young people who are homeless and need temporary refuge have safe accommodation and are helped to establish stable housing and reconnect with social and economic opportunities in their community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020