5 December 2012
Media release
Homelessness in Port Phillip second highest in
the state
Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that the City of Port Phillip
has the second highest number of people experiencing homelessness in Victoria.
‘Every Victorian needs a safe and secure place to call home. Sadly the ABS estimated that
1,562 people in Port Phillip were homeless on Census night in 2011’, said Jenny Smith, CEO
of CHP.
‘Over half of these people are staying in boarding houses, while just below ten per cent are
living in improvised dwellings, tents or sleeping out.
‘We need to address the issues, like the high costs of rental housing, that force people to live
in overcrowded accommodation where the kitchen and bathroom facilities are shared, and
people have no choice about with whom they share their personal space.
‘Local and state governments must also continue their efforts to make sure boarding houses
are registered and crackdown on dodgy and exploitative landlords.’
According to Australians for Affordable Housing, 13 per cent of households in the City of Port
Phillip are experiencing housing stress, with a low income and paying more than a third of
that income in rent or mortgage repayments.
‘Rents in Port Phillip have risen 46 per cent since the last Census in 2006, making it much
harder for households to make ends meet, and putting them at risk of homelessness.
‘These figures show just how much we need to increase our efforts if we are to meet the
Australian Government’s target of halving homelessness by 2020.
‘We commend the City of Port Phillip’s efforts to address these issues via their homelessness
strategy, which is a strong indication of their commitment to end homelessness and improve
housing affordability.’
For media enquiries contact:
Lisa Kuspira, Policy & Communications Officer
8415 6214 or 0423 011 493
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