Mission Australia has issued a stern response to the Australian Government’s Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO), saying homeless people will be negatively affected by the financial broadcast for the next four years.
In response to the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook, Marion Bennett, Mission Australia’s Executive of Practice, Evidence and Impact said deficits predicted during the next four years will “hurt those experiencing hardship and homelessness the most.”
Every hour, more than 3,000 people across the country seek help from homelessness services such as those provided by Mission Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2024.
“We urge the Federal Government to prioritise people who are vulnerable in planning for the Federal Budget,” Bennett said. “The growing crises of homelessness, housing affordability, and the rising cost of living are already affecting too many lives, especially those struggling the most.”
Bennett pointed out that investing in ending homelessness in real terms made financial sense, saying “it’s a long-term saving,” not a “short-term expense.”
“Every dollar spent on preventing homelessness reduces future costs to our healthcare, justice and community services systems,” she added. “This not only improves quality of life but also boosts economic productivity, as people are better able to engage in education and work and rely less on income support. Greater government investment in preventing homelessness will create a healthier, safer and more productive Australia.”
Bennett heeded the fact that the New Year marked a seasonal moment to reconsider the past and plan for the future.
“As we head into the new year, a time when we reflect on the past year and look ahead with hope, we urge the government to act now and provide relief to those struggling during this housing and homelessness emergency and cost of living crisis.”
Mission Australia, on behalf of homeless, those experiencing hardship and other vulnerable people, to increase the benefit of JobSeeker to $83 AUD ($51 USD) per day. This is an increase in the maximum threshold of Commonwealth Rent Assistance, according to Bennett.
The mission charity also wants a commitment to building one million new social and affordable homes over the next 20 years.
Lastly, the organization called for the government to commit to a $500 million AUD ($313 million USD) Homelessness Prevention Transformation Fund to shift from crisis management to preventing homelessness.
“Young people who are vulnerable, many who are already homeless or at risk, need greater support from the Government through funding for youth-specific housing including Youth Foyers to help them build brighter futures,” added Bennett.
“Everyone deserves a safe and secure home. Any donation, no matter the amount, can make a difference.”
Christian Daily International prevoiusly reported on Mission Australia figures showing one in ten teenagers in the country had experienced homelessness.
