Homelessness in our community
Homelessness is growing in Macedon Ranges Shire. More people are seeking safe and stable housing, and local services are seeing growing demand for support.
This means we are seeing more people sleeping rough (sleeping in public spaces).
Often people without a home want to be in a public place because that is where they feel safest.
People experiencing homelessness have the same rights as everyone else. This includes the right to:
- be treated with dignity and respect
- be in public spaces
- join in public activities and processes
- access services
- have pets
- have belongings
- choose whether or not to accept support.
What is Council’s role?
Helping people who are experiencing homelessness is a responsibility shared between many organisations. Council is not a direct housing service provider, nor do we have funded outreach services, but we have an important role in connecting people with support and advocating for long-term solutions while supporting public amenity for all.
Council can:
- connect with those who are sleeping rough to better understand their situation and what supports may be helpful
- link those experiencing homelessness with local support services
- educate and inform of our collective responsibility in keeping public space accessible for all
- advocate for investment in social and affordable housing
- upskill our staff on understanding homelessness and referral pathways
- support the community to understand the rising issue of homelessness.
What is the role of support services?
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health is the access point for anyone experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless in the Macedon Ranges. The housing program aims to support people to move through homelessness to independence and to maintain appropriate, secure and sustainable housing.
The assistance Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health provides is tailored to the individual’s and family’s needs through case management which may range from a single session to more extensive contact and support.
The services offered may include access to short term emergency accommodation and nomination for transitional housing, assistance to apply for public and social housing or bond loans, advocacy, referral for generalist, financial, drug/alcohol counselling and children’s services.
Limited financial support is available through the Housing Establishment Fund (HEF).
What role can you play?
There are several steps you can take if you re concerned about someone experiencing homelessness.
Be safe, respectful, and kind.
If the person looks distressed or they are a danger to themselves or others, call 000 (triple zero).
Offer housing support from Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and pass on details for the person to call and request support:
If it is outside of Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, give the person the Victorian Statewide Homelessness Line on 1800 825 955. It is free to call and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What to do if you are experiencing homelessness?
Call Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health on (03) 5421 1666 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).
If you need help because of domestic or family violence, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. They can help you with confidential information and support. It’s free to call and open 24 hours every day.