Homelessness impacts more men than women, and it impacts them differently. Domestic violence is the number one cause of homelessness for women, while men are more likely to experience chronic homelessness. Women often have young children — and nearly half of all homeless are under the age of 25. A disproportionate number are indigenous, or born overseas. Facing barriers to things like employment and private rental, or lacking in strong social support networks place people at a higher risk of homelessness. This is why specialised community supports are a vital part of addressing the issue.
Homelessness is complex takes many forms can be invisible is traumatic can happen to anybody is solvable
On any given night across Australia, more than 122,000 people are homeless. Together we can change that!
While there are many types and causes of homelessness that make it a complex challenge, we know it is solvable.
Who Experiences Homelessness?
122,492
people are homeless in Australia
56
male
44
female
58
under 35
46
born overseas
20
indigenous
Where Do People Stay?
Although rough sleeping is a growing issue across Australian communities, the most common way that people experience homelessness is ‘severely overcrowded’ dwellings, and moving around between other kinds of insecure accommodation. This journey is often unsafe, and creates new risks for the health and wellbeing of those effected.
6
are sleeping rough (outside)
15
are boarding and couch surfing
20
are in supported accommodation
40
are in overcrowded dwellings
What Leads to People Becoming Homeless?
Homelessness is complex, with each person having a different journey. Homelessness is often the end point to a series of life events, and the people who are homeless are not who you may think.
Domestic violence and a the lack of affordable housing are the single largest contributors to homelessness. Other contributors include poor mental health, family breakdown, debt, poverty, leaving state care, or leaving prison.
10
suffer from mental illness
14
are unemployed suddenly
34
are escaping domestic violence
54
are unable to afford housing
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Additional Resources
Browse the latest articles, reports, documentaries, and publications to learn more about homelessness and its intersections with domestic violence, poverty, the criminal justice system, LGBTQIA+ communities and housing policy.
Homelessness Australia is the national peak body for homelessness in Australia.
The Australia Institute of Health and Welfare publish reports and data on homelessness services in Australia.
The Council to Homeless Persons is the peak body representing organisations and individuals in Victoria.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates homelessness in its Census of Population and Housing
Without a Home ABC Fact Check and RMIT University Social and Global Studies Centre
Homelessness is a Human Rights Issue (2008) Australian Human Rights Commission
Schools For Change
We have lots more resources for school students wanting to learn more about homelessness in Australia and how they can help. Click the button above to check out our program, Schools for Change, where you can find classroom activities and helpful fundraising tips.
