The NSW Government’s record $1.2 billion to tackle homelessness and provide safe accommodation to those in need by supporting proven initiatives ensures a continued commitment to break the cycle of disadvantage.
Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said assertive outreach, early intervention and stable accommodation are key to combatting homelessness.
“As we mark Homelessness Week, we shine a light on the NSW Government’s commitment to provide supports and services across our state to reduce the number of people sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
“Early intervention is at the heart of our dedication to achieve the Premier’s Priority to halve street homelessness by 2025.
“The Together Home program is one of many exceptional programs across our state reducing rough sleeping.
“Together Home not only provides a stable place to live, but also ensures there are wrap-around supports to help people rebuild their lives and reduce a return to rough sleeping.”
Since Together Home commenced in 2020, the NSW Government has invested $177.8 million, including a $37 million injection in the 2022-23 NSW Budget, with more than 990 people supported under the program.
In 2022-23 $394.8 million is being invested to continue a range of specialist homelessness services across NSW, referral services such as Link2home, enhancements for youth refuges and after hours domestic and family violence services and NSW Homelessness Strategy initiatives.
There has been also been an increase in outreach street patrols to engage with more people sleeping rough and offer support through wrap-around services and temporary accommodation.
Through the NSW Homelessness Strategy, the NSW Government has invested over $20 million to support people to maintain their social housing tenancies and prevent a return to homelessness.
Anybody who is homeless or at risk of homelessness can contact Link2home on 1800 152 152. Support is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.