Thousands of rough sleepers currently housed in hotels and motels will be back on the streets when coronavirus restrictions ease.
While state and territory governments have paid for accommodation to help homeless people self-isolate, advocates say the federal government needs to pump more money into social housing.
Everybody’s Home spokeswoman Kate Colvin says there are an estimated 4000 rough sleepers currently staying in hotels and motels across Australia.
“We are very concerned about what’s going to happen as restrictions ease if governments don’t provide permanent housing options,” she told AAP.
“The risk is governments don’t seize that opportunity and people are pushed back onto the street.”
The Australian Council of Social Service said by funding social housing, the government could help the economy recover and create thousands of jobs.
“Direct public investment in social housing is estimated to boost GDP by $1.30 for every dollar invested,” chief executive Cassandra Goldie told AAP.
“It’s a cost effective way to boost growth in jobs and incomes.”
Dr Goldie said about 400,000 Australians – made up of rough sleepers, couch surfers and low-income earners – needed affordable homes.
The Australian Council of Social Service said by funding social housing, the government could help the economy recover and create thousands of jobs.
“Direct public investment in social housing is estimated to boost GDP by $1.30 for every dollar invested,” chief executive Cassandra Goldie told AAP.
“It’s a cost effective way to boost growth in jobs and incomes.”
Dr Goldie said about 400,000 Australians – made up of rough sleepers, couch surfers and low-income earners – needed affordable homes.
Source: 9News
