Homelessness is the deepest expression of social exclusion in our society. Adequate housing is a complex issue that needs multiple approaches at the same time to address. Reason supports evidence-based long and short-term solution options to affordable housing. All social housing needs are unmet. 

Reason supports: 

  • early intervention strategies to negate the possibility of homelessness, in particular for young people
  • a whole of government approach toward addressing homelessness, this includes, mental health supports and approaches to negate and manage gender-based violence, and ensures a flexible approach to housing options  
  • increased funding for the provision of purpose-built crisis accommodation, and where possible, with appropriate onsite support so that wrap-around services are available for people who need them
  • exploration of government into innovative housing models such as pop-up housing in underutilised buildings, transportable housing, and the use of surplus government land (through leases or sale) to create social housing
  • reasonable increases in density in inner and middle suburbs
  • removal of tax barriers to build-to-rent and rent-to-buy schemes
  • adoption of more ambitious targets for the public and community Housing Renewal Plan and acknowledgement of the different roles they play for different areas of the community 
  • consider social bonds 
  • greater security for long-term renters 
  • the push for greater commonwealth funding for social housing in Victoria
  • establishing a sustainable and systematic approach to deliver a dramatic increase in social housing to meet current and future demand
  • undertaking comprehensive mapping of services gaps, with a special focus on regional and rural areas and diverse communities
  • conducting an assessment of Education First Youth Foyer sites in metro and regional areas, and increasing funding for this and Kids Under Cover and similar programs that assist young people who are at risk of homelessness
  • greater access to supported accommodation for people seeking bail 
  • a no exit to homelessness concept, where no person is exited from the hospital, rehabilitation, aged care or any other institutional setting into homelessness
  • the introduction of legislative provisions for VCAT compliance orders for residential tenancies and time limits, information attached to the 'Notice to vacate' forms and expansion of the provision of tenancy focussed legal support for tenants involved in a VCAT dispute 
  • ensuring community housing providers are recognised as public authorities for the purpose of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic)
  • well considered and well-implemented inclusionary zoning with adequate lead times with an aim to lower land prices.