Media Release by The Hon Tanya Pibersek MP

Government commits $2 million to ‘HOME’ in Queanbeyan

Joint Media Release with:

  • The Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support

Tanya Plibersek today announced the commitment of $2 million to ‘HOME’ – a new residential complex for people living with mental illness in Queanbeyan – with Eden Monaro MP Mike Kelly.

When it is completed, there will be 20 self contained units available for people with chronic mental illness who cannot live independently or are currently homeless.

Ms Plibersek said people experiencing mental illness are among the most vulnerable and isolated members of our society.

“HOME is the kind of project the Australian Government is keen to support, and that is why we committed $2 million to it in the May Budget.”

“Mental illness is a barrier which stops people getting into and staying stable housing and is a common cause of homelessness.”

“Restoring a sense of self-worth and helping people with mental illness to belong and participate again is often not easy, but it is imperative that we break the cycle of homelessness and disadvantage.”

Dr Kelly said HOME is a great example of a community supporting its most vulnerable people.

“The planning that has been done for this service suggests that there are between 50 and 100 people living with long term mental illnesses who are homeless in Queanbeyan.”

“Many people simply cannot get by without some support to maintain their housing and help with their day to day routine.”

Ms Plibersek said one of the key messages being heard as she travels around the country visiting homelessness services is that we need to do better to respond to people with complex needs.

“We need better ‘wrap around’ services for homeless Australians. Delivering integrated services that deal with all the needs of homeless people – is easy to talk about, but hard to do.”

“This facility, HOME in Queanbeyan, will go a long way toward achieving that.”

HOME is strongly supported by the local community. St Benedict’s and Father Peter Day have formed successful partnerships, leveraging donations and services from the community, local businesses and all levels of government.