On 11 February 2020, the Committee adopted the inquiry into homelessness in Australia, following a referral from the Minister for Families and Social Services, Senator Anne Ruston, and the (then) Assistant Minister for Community Housing, Homelessness and Community Services, Luke Howarth MP.

In total, the Committee received 201 submissions and 25 supplementary submissions to the inquiry, including 4 confidential submissions, from a range of government agencies, community groups and individuals. The submissions received are listed at Appendix A and published on the Committee’s website.

Report structure:

• Chapter 2 examines issues relating to the definition of homelessness, the prevalence of homelessness in Australia and proposed improvements to data analysis and collection. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of the three levels of government and considers evidence received on the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement, funding arrangements, and other relevant policies and programs.
• Chapter 3 examines the causes and risk factors related to homelessness and housing stress in Australia. It then discusses vulnerable groups who may be at increased risk of homelessness, or face unique challenges in relation to housing and homelessness that require targeted responses.
• Chapter 4 examines evidence received on options for better addressing homelessness in Australia, focusing on four proposed solutions in particular: increased focus on early intervention and prevention; a ‘Housing First’ approach, provision of more social housing, and developing a national strategy.