Homelessness

People experience homelessness when they do not have accommodation that is safe, secure and appropriate. Homelessness can occur due to a variety of complex issues including loss of employment, family breakdown, mental health and family violence.

Tackling homelessness

Our approach is to:

  • Provide information to people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness about where they can access housing and support,
  • Ensure people requiring assistance are referred to the appropriate service providers as soon as possible,
  • Monitor the extent of homelessness in Stonnington, and
  • Enhance community understanding about the causes of homelessness and local support service

Council does not have the power to move people on. People who are homeless have a right to be in public spaces and will be treated as any other member of the public. 

Council will respond to a person who is, or appears homeless if:

  • They request assistance,
  • They appear distressed or in need of assistance,
  • They are sheltering in circumstances that threaten the health and safety of themselves and/or others (e.g. in derelict buildings),
  • Their behaviour threatens their own safety or the safety of others,
  • Their behaviour is likely to result in damage to property or to the environment,
  • Their safety is threatened by others, and 
  • They appear to be under the age of 18.

 

Homeless support services

Tenants Victoria - free, confidential advice for tenants
03 9416 2577

Launch Housing - accommodation advice and assistance for individuals and families in housing crisis
03 8598 1111
1800 825 955

Frontyard - information and referral for young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
1800 800 531
03 9977 0077

Star Health - support for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
03 9525 1300

Launch Housing - Rough Sleeper Initiative - outreach to people living rough in inner Melbourne
03 8598 1170
1800 825 955

MiCare - assists people over 50 who are on low income to find long-term affordable housing
03 9510 5877

Salvation Army Crisis Centre - emergency housing, food and essentials vouchers, information and referral
03 9536 7777
1800 627 727

 

 

Reporting homelessness

Concerns regarding homelessness can be reported to Council by phone 03 8290 1333 or via a service request online.

Reports of homelessness will be investigated by Council’s Local Laws Officers who will liaise with local police and make a referral to the Launch Housing and Star Health outreach services. These services will visit the location and offer a variety of support including emergency housing.

If the person is unwell or at risk of harming themselves or others please call 000.

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