Homelessness Week 2018: Working Together to Break the Cycle of Disadvantage

Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra and South Coast and Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today welcomed the New South Wales Government’s decision to prioritise the reduction of homelessness through committing $1 billion for homelessness services over the next four years to support new and existing initiatives.

Gareth Ward said that this includes $61 million in new funding over the next four years to implement the New South Wales Homelessness Strategy, which features more early intervention and extra tailored support to help people to maintain their tenancies.

“Homelessness is a very complex social issue which can affect a range of people, including victims of domestic and family violence, young people or those experiencing mental health problems,” Mr Ward said.

“Providing a person with secure housing and tailored support which meets their needs helps to restore dignity and sets them on a positive path.

“I welcome the record $1 billion investment to homelessness services across New South Wales over four years,” he said.

Minister for Family and Community Services the Hon Pru Goward MP says that the Department of Family and Community Services and non-government providers are working together on events aimed at preventing homelessness being held around New South Wales during Homelessness Week.

“We are acting early to prevent homelessness, working hard to assist rough sleepers into accommodation and providing the necessary support to address the underlying causes of homelessness,” she said.

“Secure and stable accommodation is a key element to breaking the cycle of disadvantage and helping people reach their full potential.”

The focus areas of the New South Wales Homelessness Strategy are early intervention to prevent homelessness, increased access to support and a better integrated service system tailored to a person’s needs.