Strategic approach will help overcome homelessness in Queensland
July 21, 2011
Strategic approach will help overcome homelessness in Queensland.
The Queensland Government’s Strategy for Reducing Homelessness 2011-14 released today paves the way for systems that tackle the multiple causes of homelessness and for the supports needed to overcome it, says the Queensland Council of Social Service.
Commenting on the Opening Doors strategy, QCOSS President Karyn Walsh said it recognised the broader role of government, NGOs and the community in addressing homelessness and the need to look beyond simply finding housing for people.
“The actions in this strategy look at a range of supports for homeless people or those in danger of becoming homeless and it is these early intervention aspects which are vital in the long-term battle to prevent homelessness,” Karyn says.
“The strategy provides direction for improvement of the homelessness service system. In addition to the early intervention focus it adopts an approach to help people who’ve previously experienced homelessness to move into permanent housing as soon as possible and to give them the support they need to get ahead in life.
“Looking at the assistance required for key target groups with specific needs is central – and so is work on the question of how to provide appropriate support.
“QCOSS looks forward to working in partnership with the government to shape the implementation plan and performance measures which will underpin the success of this strategy,” says Karyn. “It is important that the sector as a whole has a strong voice in developing this implementation plan.”
For 50 years QCOSS has strived to promote social justice through working to eliminate inequality and disadvantage. The Queensland Council of Social Service represents 650 organisations and individuals throughout the state.
