South Australia Delivers Funds for National Homelessness Agreement

South Australia has dedicated $8.62 million to the 2013-14 transitional homelessness agreement, securing $17 million in joint federal-state funding aimed at reducing homelessness across the State.

The announcement follows the commitment made by all states and territories at the March meeting of the COAG Select Council on Housing and Homelessness, where ministers confirmed their ongoing commitment to homelessness services funded under the current National Partnership Agreement.

Federal Minister for Housing and Homelessness Mark Butler said South Australia would also now be able to bid for $38 million in federal funding for capital and development projects that help people move out of homelessness into safe and sustainable housing.

“South Australia will now be invited to bid for a portion of the capital and development fund as part of a competitive process, which will also require a matching contribution from the state,” Mr Butler said.

“Applications for the capital fund close on 14 May and I would encourage other states to finance their share of the agreement to guarantee their state also has access to the fund.”

At last month’s COAG Select Council on Housing and Homelessness, all state and territory housing ministers confirmed their commitment to these vital homelessness services.

South Australian Social Housing Minister Tony Piccolo said it was great news for homelessness services in South Australia and the dedicated workers who devote themselves to helping people get back on their feet.

“South Australia has delivered new approaches to ending the cycle of homelessness, from strengthening our crisis response to better early intervention approach,” Mr Piccolo said.

“This has seen South Australia record a 40.8 per cent drop in the number of people sleeping rough from 2005 to 2011,” Mr Piccolo said.

“It is important that these vital frontline services, helping some of the most vulnerable South Australians, continue to build on the significant inroads that have been made in reducing homelessness in recent years.”

Mr Piccolo said the State Government is committed to ensuring the 97 services and programs that address homelessness in South Australia continue to operate.

“This funding ensures these non-government organisations have confidence to continue delivering vital services across the state, including early intervention and accommodation.”

Mr Butler said achieving real results in reducing homelessness was only possible through joint responsibility and collaborative action.

“The Gillard Government is investing an unprecedented $26 billion in housing and homelessness services and we remain committed to halving the rate of homelessness by 2020, because every Australian deserves a safe and secure home.”

“It’s now time for the other states and territories to provide surety to homelessness service providers and their clients by committing their share of funds and signing the agreement as soon as possible.”

Capital and development fund applications close 14 May 2013, with projects expected to be substantially completed by June 2014.