Homelessness a visible crisis on Canberra's streets

Homelessness is a growing issue in Canberra, a city known for its affluence and progressive nature. People often overlook it due to its unsightly and challenging reality, especially during harsh winters. The Night Patrol service, which provides aid to the homeless in Canberra and Queanbeyan, delivered over 19,000 instances of support last financial year, a 38% increase from the previous year. Volunteers often run out of essential items like milk, providing black coffee instead.

One in five people surveyed believe they are only two paychecks away from joining the homeless population. Some use sleeping bags in public parks or alongside buildings, while others like Victor use the City's Early Morning Centre for food and support. The centre sees a surge in regular patrons during the cost-of-living crisis.

ACT Shelter reports Canberra has the highest rates of persistent or chronic homelessness in Australia. The housing affordability crisis is particularly affecting older people, women, and children. The ACT's long public housing waiting list, with 3,600 approved applicants, is a significant contributing factor. The average wait time for priority housing is over five years, causing people to remain in crisis accommodation for extended periods.

The Havelock Housing organization, which provides affordable housing, is overwhelmed with requests for temporary shelter. They anticipate a rise in demand and urge for better mental health support to prevent people from falling into homelessness in the first place. While the ACT government has plans to increase the Housing ACT property portfolio, advocates argue that service provision is equally important.