Northern Rivers Nationals MPs Chris Gulaptis, Ben Franklin, Thomas George & Geoff Provest are inviting non-government organisations in the region to submit an Expression of Interest in developing innovative supported temporary accommodation models with the goal of reducing homelessness in the region.
Under the third and final stage of the Expression of Interest, up to $10 million is being re-directed from low cost motels and made available to non-government organisations to provide supported temporary accommodation.
“Every community is affected by homelessness and this initiative will support more people to find stable accommodation and reduce homelessness in the Northern Rivers region,” the MPs said.
“We recognise that homelessness is a complex issue and there is no “one size fits all” solution. That is why this is one of a range of supports available in NSW to support people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
“We are asking non-government organisations to provide supported temporary accommodation services which will link people to the assistance they need.
“We know this innovative model of addressing homelessness in our local community will be welcomed by local NGOs,” the MPs said.
The third stage of the rollout covers the Northern NSW, Mid North Coast, Western Sydney and Nepean-Blue Mountains, Murrumbidgee and Western NSW FACS Districts.
Under the supported temporary accommodation model, people experiencing homelessness are assisted with accommodation and services which address the underlying reasons which led to them becoming homeless.
In 2016-17, the NSW Government provided more than 24,800 clients state-wide with access to temporary accommodation.
This critical service reduces homelessness by providing immediate access to a safe place for people who may be temporarily without housing.
This announcement comes on the back of a record investment of $1.1 billion to support people experiencing homelessness and improve services for social housing tenants to help break disadvantage.
Anyone at risk of or experiencing homelessness should call Link2home on 1800 152 152.