Traditionally, health and homelessness sectors have run as separate entities, leading to fragmented health care and inadequate support for people experiencing homelessness. But when COVID-19 hit, Australia’s health and homelessness services collaborated rapidly to protect people.

This research looks at public health responses to homelessness during the COVID emergency in Australia. It identifies barriers, adaptations and lessons learned from increased teamwork between public health and homelessness sectors. It investigates how these partnerships formed and how they can continue with ongoing adequate funding, staffing and logistical support. 

The report presents three case studies from News South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. Support measures showed health and homelessness services can work well together given the right operational environments. This highlights that the collaborations need to continue as homelessness remains a significant public health issue.