The Abbott Government is preparing to cut millions of dollars in funding that helps people avoid homelessness.
Premier Daniel Andrews wrote to Prime Minister Tony Abbott in December in an effort to extend the National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness, which provided $22.8 million in funding for Victorians at risk in 2014-15.
Mr Andrews visited Hanover Welfare Services in South Melbourne today to hear from people who rely on the services and facilities funded under the National Partnership Agreement.
The Agreement was signed in 2008 and expires on June 30 this year. It funds services to help Victorians avoid homelessness, including young people who have experienced family breakdown.
Victoria has committed funding to extend the Agreement for a further three years, with $29.1 million funded for this year, but the Abbott Government refuses to commit to its extension.
Hanover received $1.4 million in 2014-15 under the Agreement. Hanover will be forced to reduce services if the Abbott Government cuts the funding.
Victorian Minister for Housing, Martin Foley, has written to Federal Minister for Social Services, Scott Morrison, about the issue. Mr Morrison’s office is yet to acknowledge receipt of the letter.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Liberal cuts always target the people who need help the most.”
“I know Tony Abbott is worried about himself at the moment, but he should be more worried about the people who need these funds to live safely and securely.”
“I’ll work with the Prime Minister to get the best deal for Victorians, but I won’t work for him.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Martin Foley
"We are investing in a range of homelessness initiatives, but Tony Abbott must do his fair share. Right now he’s making the problem worse.”
“Victoria has promised to honour its share of the National Partnership Agreement for the next three years. We call on the Federal Government to do the same.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020