REIWA supports ‘Homes for Good’ this Homelessness Week

6 August 2020

"This week is National Homelessness Week and according to the Home Hub there are over 60,000 households in need of safe and affordable homes in Western Australia. Find out more on how you can help."

This week is National Homelessness Week and according to the Home Hub there are over 60,000 households (families or a group of people who share a home) in need of safe and affordable homes in Western Australia.

Community REInvest program

REIWA and its members have been supporters of The Salvation Army through the Community REInvest program which helps the Salvos deliver services to clients who may be residing at The Beacon or at Graceville, their domestic violence shelter for women and children.

Overall, our contribution helps the Salvos ensure that these individuals get back on track, access the support they need and regain their independence back in the community.

Homes for good

However, this year REIWA is pleased to also support The Home Hub’s ‘Homes for Good’ initiative which promotes a whole of community response to the housing crisis due to the increased housing needs presented by COVID-19.

REIWA CEO Neville Pozzi said homelessness can happen to anyone, at any time and it is even more prevalent since the pandemic commenced.

“Homes for Good enables people with vacant or specialised properties an opportunity to house those in need whether it be on a short or long-term basis,” Mr Pozzi said.

“Utilising these properties which may not be in use at the moment, will make a big difference to those currently experiencing homelessness.”

Looking at the data

A single person on the JobSeeker payment currently receives $1,115 per fortnight which will reduce to $815 on the 30 September 2020 and down again to $565 at the end of the year.

Compared to Perth’s median rent per week, which is $350 per week, as payments reduce, tenants will find it more and more difficult to pay rent as well as afford the basics.

“One of the key issues for those who are vulnerable in our society is housing and by ensuring those in need have a secure place to live means they can set down the foundations they need to rebuild their lives,” Mr Pozzi said.

“There are a few ways in which you can assist, whether it is to help provide short- or long-term support and REIWA is encouraging anyone who can help to do so.”

How you can help

During this difficult time, the Home Hub platform is asking people to please register if:

Homes for good: you have any vacant or available properties, including houses, unused holiday homes, hotel rooms and short-term rental properties that can be leased to those seeking shelter.
Management capacity: you can help by managing Home Hub properties if you are a community housing provider, property manager, government department, hotelier or self/private manager.
Need for housing: if you are, or know anyone, requiring safe accommodation, including seniors, low-income earners, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, anyone fleeing family and domestic violence, as well as anyone needing to move or find accommodation as a result of COVID-19.