This report looks at the pressures and dynamics affecting those working in Victoria's specialist homelessness sector and identifies the path forward towards a more supported and sustainable workforce. 

The report forms a key part of efforts by the Council to Homeless Persons and the specialist homelessness services (SHS) sector to establish an ongoing, reliable approach to address significant information gaps and inconsistencies in SHS workforce planning and development, particularly through a thorough understanding of the workforce, its challenges and dynamics. 

The report recommends several necessary initiatives to enable better workforce planning and help identify initiatives that will ensure SHS workers are supported, safe, healthy and fulfilled in their jobs.

Key findings

• Worker turnover costs the sector at least $20 million annually; turnover was double the rate of the Australian Health Care and Social Assistance industry.
• At least 22% of new workers left within 12 months.
• Workers reported rates of anxiety and depression that were double the Victorian workforce average.
• The workforce was highly educated, far above the Victorian workforce average.
• The SHS's workforce is less diverse than the rest of Victoria, but has significantly higher than average rates of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
• 88% of workers in key SHS occupations among small providers were female.
• SHS workers were twice as likely to be a carer outside of work compared to the rest of the Victorian workforce.
• The largest 20% of organisations employed almost 3 in 4 workers.

Policy Recommendations

• Expand supported educational pathways into work.
• Develop, trial and share innovative recruitment processes.
• Encourage inclusive leadership practices and work environments.
• Improve stable employment and job security.
• Ensure regular access to quality supervision.
• Ensure new staff are adequately skilled and trained.
• Support new staff with appropriate induction and onboarding.
• Support organisations to expand workforce health and wellbeing understanding beyond psychological support programs.