The Salvation Army’s Economic and Social Impact Survey 2016 surveyed more than 1600 clients across Australia.

It found that a massive 68% of clients living in private rental properties or paying off a mortgage experience extreme housing stress - using nearly two thirds of their disposable income on housing/accommodation. 

The report reveals:

• Respondents affected by family violence were most affected by extreme housing stress. And family violence is the key reason why women (37%) moved in the past 12 months. 
• 64% of respondents who moved due to family violence said their children had to change schools when their family moved. 
• 40% of people who were surveyed had moved house – on average – almost three (2.7) times in 12 months. 
• Nearly 1 in 5 (17%) are either HOMELESS or living in TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION. (1 in 3 previously rented privately). 
• 37% of people responding who are homeless had experienced persistent homelessness for 2 years (1 in 10 had moved six times in the past 12 months). 
• A massive 86% of clients and 58% of households with children report severe deprivation and go without five or more basic items. 
• Numerous clients live off just $16.96 a day after housing/accommodation is paid for. 
• Some clients – on Newstart – survive off just $15.29 a day after housing/accommodation is paid for. 
• 6 out of 10 respondents cannot afford an internet connection for their child.
• 1 in 5 cannot afford medical treatment or prescribed medicine for their children and 2 in 5 cannot afford a yearly dental checkup for their child.