06/08/2026
This week, alongside Dental Health Week, we also want to acknowledge that it’s Homelessness Week (3 - 9 August).
When people think of homelessness, rough sleeping often comes to mind, yet less than 7 percent of people without a home are rough sleeping. Most are in temporary, insecure or unsafe housing situations like couch surfing, in cars, or in overcrowded or unstable accommodation. This is often called "hidden homelessness" because many times it gets overlooked.
Homelessness can happen to anyone, and for many reasons. It also impacts some groups more than others:
🔹Family and domestic violence is one of the most common reasons, with almost half of people who seek homelessness support naming it as the main reason.
🔹First Nations Victorians are 13.1 times more likely to experience homelessness than other Victorians.
🔹Housing affordability is a major driver with just 1% of Victorian rental properties being affordable for someone on minimum wage.
🔹10,000+ Victorians a month seek help due to housing stress.
At North Richmond Community Health, we come across people struggling to keep (or find) a roof over their heads in our work every day. Many of the people we support face housing instability alongside other challenges - and it shapes and impacts everything from health outcomes to access to care. Our Community Hub, AOD Outreach and MSIR teams see this regularly, and work to connect people with the right supports. This week, we're recognising the hardships that many people are facing, and how critically important stable housing is as a foundation for people’s health and wellbeing.
If you, or someone you know, needs housing support, here are some things you can do:
✅For crisis or emergency accommodation call this free, state-wide 24-hour support line on 1800 825 955
✅If you are escaping family violence, please call Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: 1800 015 188 (free 24-hour)
✅Launch Housing Yarra also have recently opened an access point at 54-56 Bridge Road Richmond where they can assist with housing advice, emergency shelter, crisis accommodation or an assessment. Drop-in and phone (1800 825 955) available Monday-Friday 9.30 am-3pm, or email support to [email protected]
Orange Sky Australia visit every Thursday 11am - 1pm with their van near our rear entrance near the corner of Vere St and Belgium Ave. They provide support to people experiencing homelessness and hardship. They welcome anyone in need to access their free laundry and shower facilities, and they're also there if you want to connect with someone for a genuine, non-judgemental chat.
Sources: Council to Homeless Persons
