Homelessness could be closer to home
With the cost of living on the rise so is the homelessness rate with more pain to come with inflation and the growing housing crisis.
This week is Homelessness Prevention Week (August 1-7) as we recognise how easy it is to lose a home - and how hard it is to find another.
According to new RACQ research, over two thirds of Queenslanders are worried about the rise in everyday living expenses, up from 50% in October 2021, and one in 10 have no confidence in their financial situation.
The findings also reveal more than 40% of people have no savings, 30% describe their financial situation as ‘getting by’ and one in 10 said they are ‘struggling’.
However, the report found 65% of Queenslanders were taking steps to curb cost of living pressures, mostly cutting back on expenses such as luxury items, eating out and opting for cheaper food brands.
The Salvation Army is urging Australians to accept there isn’t a type of person who finds themselves homeless – it can and does happen to anyone.
Over the past twelve months 11,604 Australians identified their accommodation as an ‘improvised home, tent or sleeping out’, with those sleeping rough making up 7% of the total number of people experiencing homelessness.
The Salvation Army’s General manager of Homelessness, Dr Jed Donohue, commented on the growing issue and the community’s perception.
“It seems there is a belief out there that homelessness is something that happens to ‘other’ people, but I see people from all walks of life who have found themselves without accommodation,” he said.
“It doesn’t take much to lose a home, just unfortunate circumstances that once in play, can’t be easily reversed. “
Dr Donohue said he is concerned that the current economic climate and a chronic lack of accessible and affordable accommodation is only going to see the homelessness problem in this country increase.
“We are seeing more people in rural and regional areas seeking our help because there simply aren’t enough places up for rent and, if they are, they are unaffordable. Moving elsewhere doesn’t help – it is a growing problem everywhere.”
The Salvation Army recognises that while ordinary Australians who have lost jobs, have to care for a loved one or can no longer afford their rent or mortgage is increasing, disadvantaged community members such as women fleeing domestic violence, veterans, the mentally ill and those over 55 remain vulnerable.
“Each year an estimated 7,690 women return to perpetrators because they have nowhere to go, and an estimated 9,120 women become homeless,” Donohue added.
Dr Donohue says those who wish to help the Salvos that all small efforts can have big impact.
“Everyone can help the situation through simple actions such as treating those impacted by homelessness with dignity and respect and advocating for their rights.
“The fact is that today, homelessness is closer than many think and could well affect someone you know and love.”