Mission Australia, which is focused on ending homelessness and ensuring communities in need can thrive, says action must be taken now to reduce the growing numbers of older people being forced into homelessness.
“Australia’s ageing population is expected to double between 2010 and 2050. There is a severe shortage of social and affordable housing, growing levels of housing stress and of course ongoing pandemic challenges. This has created a perfect storm which is causing more people over the age of 55 to be forced into homelessness,” said Mission Australia’s CEO James Toomey.
The number of people experiencing homelessness is expected to rise in the 2021 Census statistics, with women over 55 one of the fastest growing groups of people reaching out for assistance from specialist homelessness services, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
“The challenges of the pandemic have pushed many people, including older people, into poverty and homelessness. For many, it’s the first time in their lives they’ve been without a safe place to call home. These challenges and increased isolation have caused great financial and emotional pressure for many of our older Australians,” said Mr Toomey.
“These older people who are homeless are mostly unseen. The majority aren’t sleeping rough in plain sight on the footpath. They’re more likely to be facing hidden homelessness. They’re living in unsafe or insecure living conditions like a car, temporary accommodation, a garage or they could be couch surfing.
“Older women in particular can be at major risk of later-in-life homelessness, due to factors such as low retirement savings and superannuation and the high costs of housing. Alongside the pressures of the pandemic, these can leave older women more vulnerable to life shocks such as sudden illness, job loss, domestic violence, or when they are widowed.”
Mr Toomey said there is a need for affordable housing. ANZ Bank predicts house prices nationally will rise by 17 per cent through 2021, before slowing to 6 per cent in 2022. Perth and Sydney house prices are expected to rise by 19 per cent this year.
Mission Australia wants to help older people find a safe home this winter and support the vital work of its frontline staff by donating to the charity’s winter appeal.
