Inquiry into Homelessness in Australia - June 2020

This submission outlines the following:

• Australian governments are obligated through international human rights instruments to ensure that all citizens enjoy a basic standard of living that includes access to housing and the continuous improvement of living conditions.

• Young people are at an increased risk of homelessness when they are impacted by issues such as domestic and family violence, unemployment and underemployment, the casualisation of the workforce and insecure employment, inadequate rates of income support and a lack of access to affordable housing options. 

• Young people experiencing homelessness face a disproportionate range of health impacts including mental health issues and other chronic conditions compared to the rest of the population.

• Early intervention and prevention responses that address family functioning, education and training, targeted service provision and supports, increases in affordable housing, increases to income support and policy and culture change have the best chance of decreasing youth homelessness.