Higher income support payments could prevent homelessness

The inadequacy of income support payments is putting people at risk of homelessness. Nicole Lawder CEO of Homelessness Australia outlines what changes need to be made to government payments.

Around one million Australians are recipients of non-pension allowance payments. Of these just under 600,000 are in receipt of the Newstart Allowance which contains a participation requirement to actively look for ten paid employment roles per fortnight. The payment equates to $35 per day for single people with an additional payment of up to $8.40 per day to assist people to meet the costs of renting a dwelling.

More than 150,000 people are recipients of the even less generous Youth Allowance payment which provides just $29 per day for life’s necessities with an additional maximum of $8.40 per day to help meet the costs of weekly rent.

Homelessness requires focus and commitment

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures show that almost 60% of people seeking shelter at specialist support services were turned away last year. Nicole Lawder says finding solutions for Australia's homeless requires government and community focus.