The homelessness crisis in Mildura has reached alarming levels, with a 95.4 per cent increase in homeless individuals between 2016 and 2023, according to St Vincent de Paul Society president Mark Gaetani.
The total number of homeless people in Mildura rose from 264 to 516, affecting 74 people per 10,000 compared to the state average of 42 per 10,000.
The situation in Mildura is particularly dire, with 45 per cent of homeless individuals living in overcrowded dwellings, 20 per cent in supported accommodation, 15 per cent in boarding or rooming houses, 10 per cent couch surfing, and 9 per cent rough sleeping.
The Allan Labor Government must be warned that housing affordability is expected to worsen over the next five years, citing significant supply and labour force issues, and a shortage of council-approved locations.
In recognition of National Homelessness Week, the Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, will be supporting The Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP), the primary local agency addressing housing needs.
“MASP have a collection point at Mildura Central this week to donate goods.”
Benham criticised the Allan Labor Government for falling behind on their Big Build Plan, exacerbating homelessness issues amid a construction worker shortage.
“Immediate action is required from the Allan Labor Government to address these critical issues and support Mildura in delivering the essential housing solutions our community desperately needs,” said Ms Benham.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t adequately fund housing initiatives, and Mildura residents will continue to pay the price.”
The Nationals are calling for urgent reforms and a more equitable distribution of resources to ensure local governments and housing agencies can continue to provide essential services and maintain critical infrastructure to combat homelessness.
