Homelessness in the Southern Highlands

August 12, 2024

This article was first published by Southern Highland News on 11 August 2024 Click here to view the full article.

Being priced out, domestic violence: a spotlight on homelessness in the Highlands

Argyle Housing CEO Carolyn Doherty said there was a “misconception” that there was no homelessness in the Highlands, which was far from the truth.

The other incorrect assumption was that it only affected people with “severe issues”, such as addictions or mental illnesses.

“In reality, many homeless individuals and families are simply facing heightened economic pressures and housing instability,” she said.

“Homelessness can happen to anyone, often due to unforeseen circumstances such as job loss, health crises, or family breakdown.”

“We’re basically seeing a lot more people access services that would have never accessed services before,” Southern Highlands Homeless Service manager Veronica Ritchie.

Ms Doherty said there was a rise in people to go to Argyle Housing when they were working.

“Increasingly we are seeing individuals and families who are engaged in full time employment in a position of homelessness, due to lack of supply and unaffordability,” Ms Doherty said.

What needs to be done

“To effectively support people in need of housing or those on the brink of homelessness in the Highlands, we require increased access to financial support services, mental health resources, and community education programs alongside additional housing supply,” Ms Doherty said.

“Enhanced collaboration between local agencies, government authorities, and non-profit organisations is essential to create a network of care that addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions.”

Ms Ritchie said temporary accommodation was also needed, because clients were then sent to Bargo, Wollongong, or Wollongong.