Five reasons why Victoria’s new proactive homelessness plan is worth trying

Victoria has committed to a $27.8 million plan aimed at reducing rough sleeping in the state. The plan focuses on assertive street outreach linked to social housing. Research shows that when rough sleepers access the support services they need, they are more likely to keep their housing and avoid returning to homelessness. There are five reasons to be optimistic about the plan, despite it not being a panacea for Victoria's homelessness issues.

First, reducing rough sleeping can improve the health of vulnerable people. Second, assertive outreach linked to social housing has proven to be successful. Third, it can be cost-effective, as governments and organizations spend significant resources on policing, ambulances, hospitals, courts, and homeless services when people are sleeping rough.

Fourth, rough sleeping can harm social cohesion and our shared sense of dignity and opportunity. Finally, the Victorian plan diverges from punitive measures seen in other parts of Australia, which often push people into hidden spaces where services are inaccessible. While there is a caution to take with excitement, the research shows that when assertive outreach workers can offer rough sleepers safe, secure, and affordable housing, people typically accept the housing.