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.
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.