Join with us to help ease the crisis
Sunshine Coast residents are being encouraged to learn more about homelessness.
The call to action comes as the nation generates greater awareness, understanding and support through Homelessness Week, which runs from August 5 to 11.
The theme this year is Action Now, and Council recognises that responding to homelessness is 'Everybody's Business' and requires all levels of government and community to work together.
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law encouraged residents to take action for all of our community.
“As in many other parts of Australia, Homelessness has increased on the Sunshine Coast by 54 per cent since the 2016 census,” Cr Law said.
“Last year Council adopted its Housing and Homelessness Action Plan which outlines a number of initiatives Council undertakes to help people experiencing homelessness.
“One initiative included supporting the formation of a group called Street Up, a partnership between Caloundra and Nambour Community Centres and Council, and people with living and lived experience of homelessness.
“Street Up has been formed to help support service improvements and raise awareness of issues facing people living without a home through presentations, training, peer support, research, policy reviews and consultations.
“The inclusion of lived expertise is crucial for improving systems, policies and practice in the homelessness sector.”
Achieved outcomes from the Housing & Homelessness Action Plan:
- New Council Public Space Liaison Officer position to reduce the impact of homelessness through community education, early identification and coordinated responses.
- Provision of Amenity Passes at nine Sunshine Coast Aquatic Centres to provide free showers for people experiencing homelessness.
- Supported community led project to provide transitional housing for women in Nambour.
- Funding increase for the Assertive Outreach Program.
- Delivery of Homelessness Awareness Staff Training
- Staff coordination to donate to homelessness services.
Cr Law said a year on from the adoption of the Housing and Homelessness Action Plan, it is positive to see these outcomes already achieved.
“We still have a way to go, however we are on a strong path forward,” he said.
Tips on how you can help and be an ally:
Be friendly – people living without a home often feel ignored, unseen, misunderstood and judged. Be kind, smile and say hello.
Be educated – increase your awareness and understanding of causes and impacts of homelessness by visiting the Homelessness Australia and Q Shelter websites. For Sunshine Coast specific data visit Council's website.
Be accommodating - 32.6 per cent of renters are experiencing rental stress. Consider renting a spare room, granny flat or your holiday house.
Be an ally – learn from people with lived experience. Visit www.streetup.com.au for more information.
Be an advocate – write to your State member calling for more social and affordable housing, emergency shelter options, funding for homelessness services.
Be a good neighbour – donate or volunteer. Contact a service in the Sunshine Coast Housing and Homelessness Directory and ask if they accept donations and what items they currently need. Contact a local service and offer your time, skills, and support.
Many local community services and centres are supported by volunteers and there are current opportunities for community members to lend a hand.
Support available
If you’re experiencing homelessness or are housed but at risk of homelessness, including experiencing domestic and family violence you can call:
- Homelessness Hotline: 1800 474 753
- DVConnect: 1800 811 811