Homelessness in Geelong
People experiencing homelessness may be:
- Sleeping rough or staying in improvised shelters such as tents or swags.
- Couch surfing with no fixed address.
- Staying in temporary emergency accommodation such as a motel or crisis refuge.
- Staying in a caravan park or rooming house.
Why are people homeless?
There are many reasons why people are homeless including family violence, accessible private rental, financial difficulties, relationship issues, inappropriate housing, and mental health.
How long are people homeless for?
The 2021 census indicated that 1,541 people were experiencing homelessness in Geelong. Most often people are homeless for around 4-5 months, but 20 percent of experiences last longer than 12 months.
How can we reduce homelessness in Geelong?
- We need to get better at early intervention, so we can connect with people and families and support them, so they don’t become homeless.
- We must provide more long-term housing for people experiencing homelessness and social housing is key because it ensures homes are affordable and secure.
- Appropriate housing, catering for all families and individuals: 1–5-bedroom properties and houses that are not concentrated in one area that can than cause more issues and concerns.
- Families feeling safe: People who use violence are made accountable so that those affected by it are not made transient in their search for safety.
Did you know...
- around 1,541 people in Geelong said they were homeless or close to being homeless in the 2021 Census.
- just over 5,600 people received homelessness support services in the Barwon region in 2021-2022.
- across Victoria around 60 percent of all those that access homelessness services are families.
- about 20 percent of all those that access homelessness services are children under 15 years of age.
- two thirds of people who experience homelessness do not go to services, so the real number of people who are homeless is likely to be much higher.
Need help?
If you are:
- Homeless or worried about becoming homeless, seek support now.
- Contact the 24-hour statewide service on 1800 825 955 (toll free) who will refer you to help in your
local area.
- Concerned about someone who is sleeping rough, you can contact Towards Home+ Geelong on 1300 275 811 (NEAMI National).
Need to know more...
To find out more about how the City of Greater Geelong is supporting Social Housing, visit our social housing page.
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