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Homelessness is a critical issue affecting thousands of Australians each night (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare [AIHW] 2022). Whether caused by financial hardship, family breakdown, or mental health struggles, losing stable housing can feel overwhelming. However, numerous resources and services exist to help people find immediate shelter, access temporary or crisis accommodation, and work toward longer-term housing solutions (Department of Social Services 2021).

This article outlines a step-by-step approach to seeking accommodation if you are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, in Australia.

Keywords: Homelessness in Australia, Specialist Homelessness Services, Crisis accommodation, Public housing applications, Transitional housing, Government support payments, Centrelink and Rent Assistance, Mental health and homelessness, Community housing options, Homelessness helplines

If you feel unsafe or threatened (e.g., due to domestic violence or a dangerous living situation), contact emergency services immediately on 000 (Australian Federal Police 2023). Safety should be the top priority, and crisis support lines can guide you to appropriate shelters or refuges.

If you have nowhere to sleep tonight or are in urgent need of shelter, each state and territory has dedicated helplines and emergency housing options:

• New South Wales: Link2home—call 1800 152 152
• Queensland: Homeless Hotline—call 1800 474 753
• Victoria: 24-hour statewide crisis accommodation—call 1800 825 955

These hotlines offer free, confidential advice and can direct you to the closest available crisis accommodation in your area (AIHW 2022).

Specialist Homelessness Services can provide short-term shelter and help you transition into more stable arrangements (Department of Social Services 2021). Examples include:

• Salvation Army
• St Vincent de Paul Society
• Mission Australia

A list of SHS providers in your area can usually be found on your state or territory housing website or by contacting your local council (AIHW 2022).

SHS providers often have direct links to crisis centres or temporary hostels. While these facilities might be basic, they offer a safe environment, meals, and in some cases, access to support workers who can assist you with finances, mental health referrals, and job-seeking (Council to Homeless Persons 2020).

If you are not already receiving an income support payment, you may be eligible for:

• JobSeeker Payment
• Disability Support Pension
• Youth Allowance (for younger people)
• Rent Assistance (to help with housing costs)

Contact Services Australia to discuss your circumstances and submit a claim (Services Australia 2023). Make sure you bring any necessary identification and documents related to your situation.

Each state and territory has its own public or community housing options, though wait times can vary:

• NSW: Department of Communities and Justice
• VIC: Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
• QLD: Department of Housing
• WA: Department of Communities

These agencies assess your eligibility based on factors such as income, residency status, and specific vulnerabilities (Department of Social Services 2021). Even if the waiting list is lengthy, registering is essential to start the formal process for public or social housing.

Transitional housing provides medium-term lodging while you stabilise finances, address mental or physical health needs, and search for permanent housing (Council to Homeless Persons 2020). Rental costs are typically income-based, and support workers may help you develop a future housing plan.

Some services include onsite support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, addiction, or disability-related needs (Australian Psychological Society [APS] 2023). Look for programs that match your situation, such as:

• Therapeutic Communities (for substance use recovery)
• NDIS Supported Independent Living (for eligible participants with a disability)
• Youth Foyers (for young people needing stable housing and educational support)

If you have a source of income but struggle with upfront costs (e.g., bonds, advance rent), you may qualify for bond loans or rental grants through state or territory housing departments (Services Australia 2023). Additionally, charities and not-for-profit organisations sometimes offer no-interest loans or one-off emergency relief.

Community housing organisations operate affordable rental properties for low to moderate-income earners. Rents are generally below market rates, making them accessible for people who cannot find suitable private housing (Department of Social Services 2021).

After securing housing, remain connected with local community centres, mental health services, or employment support agencies to maintain stability. Consider:

• Financial counselling: To manage debts or budget effectively
• Career services: For resume building, training, and job search assistance
• Mental health support: If stress, anxiety, or depression arises due to housing challenges (APS 2023)

Homelessness can significantly impact mental health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a psychologist or counsellor—services like Calm ‘n’ Caring Psychology also offer Telehealth appointments and can address issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma (APS 2023).

Joining local support groups or online forums can provide emotional backing and practical advice from others who have navigated similar journeys (Council to Homeless Persons 2020). You might discover new housing leads, job opportunities, or friendships that ease the transition into stable accommodation.

Experiencing homelessness is a challenging and often isolating situation. Yet, in Australia, numerous resources—emergency shelters, Specialist Homelessness Services, government support payments, and transitional housing—aim to help individuals secure stable accommodation (AIHW 2022).

By following this step-by-step guide—starting with crisis hotlines, contacting Specialist Homelessness Services, assessing government assistance options, and exploring transitional or long-term housing—people facing homelessness can take critical steps toward regaining stability and independence. For ongoing mental and emotional support, reaching out to healthcare professionals and community networks is equally vital.

Remember: you are not alone, and assistance is available. If you or someone you know is homeless, do not hesitate to seek help from the many organisations dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Australia.

• Australian Federal Police 2023, When to Call Triple Zero (000), AFP, https://www.afp.gov.au/.
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2022, Specialist Homelessness Services Annual Report, AIHW, https://www.aihw.gov.au/.
• Australian Psychological Society (APS) 2023, Accessing Mental Health Services, APS, https://psychology.org.au/.
• Council to Homeless Persons 2020, Understanding Homelessness in Australia, CHP, https://chp.org.au/.
• Department of Social Services 2021, National Housing and Homelessness Agreement, Australian Government, https://www.dss.gov.au/.
• Services Australia 2023, Centrelink Payments and Services, Services Australia, https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/.

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