The Victorian Government has said it will support hundreds of Victorians out of homelessness and into their very own homes.
The Government has invested $48 million to help 500 households over the next three years access long-term housing and support through the Homes First program.
The program will be delivered to eight areas across the state where support services for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of sleeping rough are needed most.
As well as accommodation, those in the program will receive intensive support to ensure they are getting the responsive, flexible wrap-around support they need to thrive, which may include mental health, drug and alcohol, financial counselling and family violence support.
“Finding people a safe and secure place to call home is one part of breaking the cycle of homelessness, the other is making sure they have the wrap-around support they need to thrive,” Minister for Housing Harriet Shing said.
“Homes First is evidence-based and will provide practical, on-the-ground support to hundreds of Victorians right across the state.
“This is an opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness – because we know that having secure, stable housing with wraparound supports leads to better outcomes across the board.”
The program will initially operate in eight regions, including the Goulburn Valley.
At least 10 per cent of Homes First funding will be targeted towards Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.