Homelessness is an increasing reality in Sydney, throughout Australia and across the globe. Ending homelessness is possible and we are calling on our Australian Government who is leading the development of a national ten-year housing and homeless strategy to consider all key areas to ending homelessness and for ongoing commitment to end the cycle homelessness in Australia.

Through affordable housing, increased social housing, effective policies, increased funding for homelessness services, more support for ending domestic and family violence, input from those experiencing homelessness, greater support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, a greater focus on the prevention of homelessness and stronger cross sector collaboration we can end homelessness.

In Australia 122,494 people are experiencing homelessness in some form, every single night. 1,623 people were counted sleeping rough on the streets of NSW during the latest street count in 2023, a 34% increase compared to 2022 (Communities and Justice, NSW). These numbers highlight the urgency and need for commitment from our Government.

Homelessness can happen to anyone and no one deserves to survive without their fundamental human rights of a shelter, food, water and dignity and the social isolation that the stigma of homelessness causes.

We need affordable housing (including an affordable rental market), significantly increased social housing, as well as more support dedicated towards ending domestic and family violence - one of the leading causes of homelessness among women and children (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence).

Furthermore, we must shift our focus towards prevention rather than just management of homelessness. By doing so, we can stop this problem before it starts and reduce its prevalence in our society.

Lastly, stronger sector collaboration is essential in tackling this multifaceted issue. By uniting various sectors - government agencies, non-profit organizations, private entities - we can pool resources and expertise to create comprehensive solutions that address all aspects of homelessness.

We urge you to join us in advocating for these changes. Together we can end homelessness once and for all. Please sign this petition today.