New Census figures estimating growth in homelessness no surprise

Census data* released today that shows an increase in the number of Australians experiencing homelessness has come as no surprise to St Vincent de Paul Society SA CEO Evelyn O’Loughlin, with the organisation seeing demand for services continuing to climb by up to 40% compared to 2022.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics figures report that 122,494 people were estimated to be experiencing homelessness on Census night in 2021, an increase of 6,067 people.

‘Based on what we are seeing at Vinnies we were not surprised to see the figure increase, however I have to say the number is lower than we were anticipating. I can only conclude that this is due to the Census being conducted almost two years ago – things have got a lot tougher since then,’ Ms O’Loughlin said.

‘Inflation, rental increases, the cost-of-living crisis, and a lack of affordable housing are just some of the factors that are pushing more and more people to the brink of homelessness. Some people still haven’t recovered financially from Covid interruptions.

‘We are hearing from people who have never had to reach out to a charity for help before, and who don’t fit society’s view of who would typically become homeless. People in employment and younger people who simply can’t make ends meet are an emerging group requiring our help. A 10% increase in the number of women experiencing homelessness is also very alarming.

Ms O’Loughlin said the official number of people estimated to be homeless wass unlikely to reveal the full extent of the issue, given the way the data was collected with people living in crowded dwellings, improvised dwellings or in caravan parks not represented.

‘We would hear from a number of people each week who have moved into a caravan, or who are living with family and friends. Typically, these would be short term arrangements, however the current economic climate and rental shortage means there is simply nowhere else for them to go.

‘We know there is no ‘quick fix’ to homelessness, but Vinnies is committed to our ongoing work with sector colleagues, and local, state and federal governments to identify and overcome the structural
barriers to people accessing safe and suitable housing. As always, we thank our donors and supporters without whom we couldn’t continue this important work.'

* Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021), Estimating Homelessness: Census, ABS Website, accessed 22 March 2023.

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Media contact:

Jo Dinnison ph 0419 940 721 or email media@svdpsa.org.au