A recent report by Impact Economics for Homelessness NSW has highlighted a shocking rise in homelessness across the state, estimating that 80,000 people are currently homeless in New South Wales (NSW). This figure represents a dramatic increase from the 35,011 recorded in the 2021 Census, revealing that the number of individuals sleeping rough has more than doubled in just four years. The report, originally authored by Suzan Giuliani in The Sunday Telegraph, underscores the urgent need for action as the crisis deepens.
Key Findings of the Report
- Funding Shortfalls: NSW’s funding for homelessness services is the lowest in Australia, at just $37 per person. In comparison, Victoria allocates $75, and Tasmania $91 per person.
- At-Risk Population: An alarming 700,000 people in NSW are also identified as being at risk of homelessness, driven primarily by housing affordability issues and rental stress.
- Frontline Services Overwhelmed: Many organisations reported having to close their doors due to overwhelming demand, with some unable to answer calls for help.
Focus on Liverpool’s Struggles
In Liverpool, the situation is particularly dire, with ongoing problems related to homelessness evident in Pioneers Park and throughout the CBD. Deputy Mayor of Liverpool Mr Peter Harle raised matters on behalf of the community during the recent Community Safety and Crime Prevention Advisory Committee meeting
While Det. Insp. Timothy Liddiard of Liverpool City Police Area Command attended the meeting, no long term strategy or significant action plan was agreed with NSW Police. Reports indicate that these areas have seen a significant increase in individuals experiencing homelessness, with many struggling to find safe and stable accommodation. It also now appears the face of homelessness is getting younger in Liverpool.
The streets of Liverpool are littered with discarded syringes and needles, pointing to a troubling prevalence of drug use among the homeless population. This public health concern not only affects the individuals living on the streets but also poses risks to the wider community.
Recent Evictions and Their Impact
The situation has been exacerbated by recent evictions, notably at Warwick Train Station Car Park, where individuals were displaced last year. These evictions have left many without a place to go and caused the problem to spread out across the City Streets of Liverpool. The community has witnessed firsthand the struggles of those affected, including families and individuals who have fallen through the cracks of the social safety net.
Voices from the Frontline
Homelessness NSW Chief Executive Dominique Rowe emphasised the overwhelming demand for services in suburban and regional areas, stating, “The private rental market is really tight at the moment, so people are finding it difficult to make ends meet.” Frontline workers are heartbroken each time they have to turn someone away due to lack of resources.
The Salvation Army’s State Manager for Homelessness NSW/ACT, Kristie Clifton, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the emotional toll on staff as they witness the desperation of those reaching out for help. “Current funding levels are not allowing our brilliant services to do their jobs,” she said, calling for an urgent increase in core funding to support those in need.
Government Response
In response to the crisis, Housing and Homelessness Minister Rose Jackson stated that the Minns Labor government is taking a “housing-first approach” to tackle homelessness, asserting that “you can’t end homelessness without homes.” The government has reportedly invested $6.6 billion through the Building Homes for NSW program, aiming to deliver new housing solutions.
However, Opposition spokeswoman Natasha Maclaren-Jones criticised the government, claiming that frontline homelessness services have been “starved of funding” and are now stretched to breaking point. She noted that as the housing and cost-of-living crisis deepens, more individuals are experiencing homelessness for the first time.
The homelessness crisis in NSW, particularly in Liverpool, requires immediate attention and action. As the community grapples with increasing numbers of individuals living on the streets, the need for enhanced support services and funding becomes ever more critical. If you or someone you know needs support, please contact Link2home Homelessness at 1800 152 152.
Source Daily Telegraph
