$6.75 million to tackle homelessness in South Australia
South Australia will receive $6.75 million in Federal Government funding to expand accommodation for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, Federal Member for Adelaide Kate Ellis announced today.
Ms Ellis said a new development in the Adelaide CBD would provide critical pathways out of homelessness and into sustainable and affordable rental accommodation.
As part of the National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness, the Federal Labor Government established a Development Fund to support a range of capital projects nationally.
These included supported accommodation and independent units, as well as support for young people and women escaping domestic violence.
Ms Ellis said the project proposed by the South Australian Government was a ‘standout’ because of the continued, individualised support tenants will receive as they get back on their feet.
“Typical of Labor values and principles, we’re a Federal Government that strives to do all we can for the most disadvantaged, particularly those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless,” Ms Ellis said.
“For a strong and prosperous nation, we have a responsibility to help these people back on their feet.
“This new development will enable people to rebuild their lives, rather than having to continually access crisis or short-term assistance.”
South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill said Common Ground was started in New York City, first brought to Australia by the South Australian Government and has been expanded across the country.
“Common Ground doesn’t just provide people a safe place to sleep but a home where services are close at hand, such as health, education and personal support,” Mr Weatherill said.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Mark Butler said achieving real results in reducing homelessness was only possible through joint responsibility and collaborative action.
“Here in South Australia, the Common Ground project will see all levels of government, the community sector, and members of the community all working together to address homelessness,” Mr Butler said.
Mr Butler said the Labor Government remains committed to halving the rate of homelessness by 2020 because every Australian deserves a safe and secure home.
“We’ve invested an unprecedented $26 billion in housing and homelessness since coming to Government and we remain committed to halving the rate of homelessness by 2020 because every Australian deserves a safe and secure home,” Mr Butler said.
The $6.75 million announced today is part of the $43 million development fund made available to states and territories as part of the transitional NPAH, which all states and territories have now signed.
These projects are expected to be substantially completed in 2014.
Media Contact: Karen Palmer (Butler) 0427 339 594
Joshua Cooney (Ellis) 0428 300 514