Teams of outreach workers will patrol homeless hotspots across Geelong as part of a rough sleepers’ package being rolled out by the Andrews Labor Government to better support vulnerable Victorians.
Minister for Housing Richard Wynne announced the $17 million package today, which includes 20 new modular homes to be built in areas of high need.
Under the new program, foot patrols of outreach workers will provide tailored and targeted support to people sleeping rough and help direct them to emergency accommodation and ongoing support.
Meanwhile supportive housing teams will focus on ongoing solutions that get people off the streets and keep them in housing, helping with short to medium-term accommodation options and rental subsidies.
The package is part of the Labor Government’s $45 million Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Action Plan and includes:
- assertive outreach teams with flexible delivery in Bendigo, Maroondah, Warrnambool, Swan Hill, Frankston, Dandenong and Geelong
- supportive housing teams in Frankston, inner Melbourne, Geelong and Dandenong
- modular housing support in Bacchus Marsh, Geelong (Norlane) and Dandenong.
Sacred Heart Mission, Uniting Ballarat, Brophy Family and Youth Services, Haven Home Safe, Neami Ltd, Wellways and Launch Housing are partnering with the Government as part of the program.
The modular homes will be managed by Neami in Geelong (seven) and Dandenong (seven), and Uniting Ballarat in Bacchus Marsh (six) and are expected to be completed later this year.
The modular housing will provide homes for people with complex needs who have been sleeping rough for an extended period and will be backed by intensive onsite support.
Quote attributable to Minister for Housing Richard Wynne
“We’re taking targeted support directly to rough sleepers to break the cycle of homelessness for vulnerable Victorians and help them get back on their feet.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“Everyone’s life story is different – this program will provide individualised support that looks at the unique challenges faced by each person, as well as providing new housing to expand our options.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“These outreach workers have access to a flexible range of services and approaches to support rough sleepers, to help them with the issues they face and assist them into housing in their local area.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville
“These important changes will give vulnerable members of the Geelong community the support and shelter they need.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020