Securing longer term funding for Specialist Homelessness Services

Monday, 29 May 2023

The NSW Government has granted a two-year extension of Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) contracts, providing stability and continuity for some of the state's most vulnerable people.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, has acknowledged that the surge in demand has been driven by the effects of the pandemic, natural disasters, and the escalating housing affordability crisis.

Contracts for Specialist Homelessness Services and the Homeless Youth Assistance Program are set to expire on 30 June 2024.

“I am extending these existing contracts for a further two years. This will increase the current contract term from three years up to five years. The end date for these contracts will change from 30 June 2024 to 30 June 2026,” Ms Jackson said.

“Tens of thousands of people rely on us each year for essential support during times of crisis and it’s important for us to support them and the organisations that work to provide housing solutions to our most vulnerable,”

“We are committed to delivering on our election commitments, which includes longer term, 5-year funding certainty for Specialist Homelessness Services.

“This important reform will ensure SHS providers have certainty about funding, staffing, and continuing the incredible work they do to support people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Specialist Homelessness Services are focused on reducing the number of people who are homeless or living in insecure accommodation in NSW.

This includes young people, families, natural disaster victims and women and children escaping domestic violence.

Everyone in NSW should have access to safe and secure housing. The NSW Government is committed towards increasing housing supply and delivering solutions to help break cycles of homelessness.