Homelessness

Despite numerous reports, reviews and initiatives over many years, homelessness remains a policy issue in search of a solution.

The Commonwealth Government has set two headline targets:

• Halve homelessness by 2020
• Provide supported accommodation for all rough sleepers in need.

These targets are to be achieved by a three-pronged approach: prevention and early intervention; investment in services; and more affordable housing. The ten-year goals seem ambitious because considerable attention and investment since 2001 has failed to significantly change rates of homelessness.