After spending years battling homelessness and waiting for the help I was promised, I completed a 9-month residential rehabilitation program, only to face rejection from the Penrith office of Housing NSW. The system insists I meet an impossible requirement: to view and apply for eight properties within my budget, which is not feasible.

This experience is traumatising, and I am not alone. Many individuals in Penrith NSW face similar challenges. Instead of finding solace and support, we encounter bureaucratic hurdles that seem to work against us. The very system meant to assist people like me who are struggling with homelessness is in dire need of reform.

We need a trauma-informed approach at the Penrith Housing NSW office. Local officials should be trained to understand and empathize with the difficulties faced by homeless individuals. Instead of rigid rules, we need flexibility, empathy, and a system that aids our transition into a stable living situation.

The solution lies in proper training and collaboration with local charities and organizations that specialize in trauma-informed care. By working together, a tailored and compassionate approach can be developed to help those in dire need finally secure stable housing.

The statistics speak volumes: According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, homelessness in New South Wales has increased by 37% in recent years. This staggering rise underscores the urgent need for change.

We implore the decision-makers to prioritize humanity and compassion in their policies. The transformation we seek is not just beneficial for those experiencing homelessness but also creates a more inclusive and caring community for everyone.

Sign the petition to urge Housing NSW's Penrith office to adopt a trauma-informed approach and collaborate with local homelessness support services.