Skip to main content

                    Support for vulnerable residents in draft Budget

                    Media release, Tuesday 25 May 2021
                    The City of Melbourne will invest $2 million over the coming year to support people experiencing homelessness, along with funding to support healthy ageing and social inclusion for older people.

                    Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the draft Budget 2021–22 includes $357,000 for the daily support team, delivered by Launch Housing, who engage with people sleeping rough and connect them with accommodation and support services.

                    "Winter starts next week and it's an incredibly tough time for people taking shelter on streets and laneways," the Lord Mayor said.

                    "We know that rough sleeping is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to homelessness, with thousands more people couch-surfing, sleeping in cars, or living in rooming houses and hotels.

                    "Our support team know many of the city's rough sleepers by name, their struggles and what support they need. We will continue offering personalised assistance to make a real difference to the lives of people sleeping rough."

                    Health, Wellbeing and Belonging portfolio lead Councillor Dr Olivia Ball said $480,000 will be allocated to Melbourne City Mission on King Street.

                    "Frontyard Youth Services provides specialist support for vulnerable young people to access housing and emergency accommodation. It is central space for young people to feel safe, have a shower, use a computer, eat a meal and see a doctor, dentist or lawyer," Cr Ball said.

                    "We're also providing $436,000 for the Salvation Army's Night Café, which has partially re-opened after converting to a street outreach program at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

                    "The Salvos Night Café provides people in need with a safe space to relax while receiving support services and a hot meal late at night, which is especially important coming into winter."

                    The city will also invest $2.5 million to support vulnerable older residents, with funding towards subsidised meals, as well as programs that promote social inclusion, healthy ageing, and safely living at home.

                    To have your say, visit participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/council-plan-and-budget


                      Was this page helpful?

                      If you'd like to give more feedback or ask a question, please contact us.