WA Provides $92.2 Million Funding Boost for Homeless Services Amid Worst Rough Sleeper Crisis

The Western Australian Government has announced a $92.2 million funding boost for homeless services as the state grapples with its worst ever crisis for rough sleepers. The funding aims to address the growing issue of homelessness in Western Australia.

The Cook Labor Government has committed $92.2 million in new funding for homelessness initiatives in the 2024-25 Budget. This includes $70.2 million to ensure the continuation of more than 120 critical homelessness services across the state, representing an unprecedented increase to baseline funding for specialist homelessness services.

An additional $15.7 million has been allocated to expand Housing First Support Services, which have been effective in supporting rough sleepers into permanent accommodation. The funding also includes $6.3 million to significantly expand Entrypoint and other homelessness referral services.

This new funding is in addition to the $47.6 million announced in January 2024 to enable the continuation of 15 critical homelessness services and boost service capacity. The combined funding aims to ensure vital services, accommodation, and support are available for Western Australians experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Why this matters: The unprecedented funding commitment highlights the severity of Western Australia's homelessness crisis and the urgent need for expanded services and support. Addressing homelessness is crucial for the well-being of affected individuals and the broader community.

Homelessness Minister John Carey stated, "This $92.2 million investment is an unprecedented increase in funding for homelessness services throughout Western Australia." The funding boost comes as homeless service providers say the state is facing its worst ever crisis for rough sleepers.

A Supreme Court challenge is also being launched this week that seeks to bar the Department of Communities from evicting children into homelessness and prevent them from easily terminating tenancies. The legal action further underscores the urgency of addressing homelessness in Western Australia.

Key Takeaways

• WA govt announces $92.2M funding boost for homelessness services
• Funding aims to continue 120+ critical homelessness services
• $15.7M to expand Housing First Support Services for rough sleepers
• $6.3M to expand Entrypoint and other homelessness referral services
• Legal action seeks to prevent evictions into homelessness in WA