The Public Interest Advocacy Centre has welcomed the NSW Government’s discussion paper on homelessness, ‘Foundations for Change,’ as a once in a decade opportunity to reduce homelessness in NSW.
PIAC runs the Homeless Persons Legal Service and provides advice to Government on homelessness and housing via consumer advisory committee, StreetCare.
‘Homelessness has been increasing in the inner city for several years now – we hope that the NSW Government makes the most of this opportunity to turn things around,’ said PIAC CEO, Jonathon Hunyor.
‘According to the City of Sydney’s StreetCount, the number of people sleeping rough has increased by 12% since this time last year, and 55% since August 2013. For homelessness to be going up in Sydney in 2016 is simply unacceptable.’
‘We need decisive action to address housing affordability and provide more crisis accommodation, or homelessness will continue to rise.
‘Throughout consultations for this discussion paper, members of StreetCare, all of whom have lived experience of homelessness, have stressed the need for specific and measurable targets to reduce homelessness.
‘They have also emphasised the importance of tackling the underlying causes of homelessness.
‘We look forward to working with the NSW Government to make sure we move beyond words on paper and act to bring about real change,’ added Jonathan Hunyor.
StreetCare will be actively engaging and consulting with other homeless people to ensure that their views are considered as part of the Strategy consultation process.
MEDIA CONTACT: PIAC Media and Communications Manager, Gemma Pearce: 0478 739 280.