More than 3,500 people across the region will have greater access to housing supports and services following the launch of a new mobile outreach program to assist people into stable accommodation.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke said the mobile outreach teams are expected to be travelling to West Wyalong, Temora, Young, Cootamundra, Junee and Narrandera throughout October.
“It is important for individuals and families in our smaller communities to have direct access to wrap-around support, with this program designed to help anyone at risk of being homeless engage with DCJ staff face-to-face,” Ms Cooke said.
Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the program would ensure regional communities, from Broken Hill to Leeton, are supported into stable accommodation.
“This funding will ensure there are dedicated staff on the ground ready to help people living in regional communities to apply for housing,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
“Housing stability plays a significant role in keeping families together and these regional outreach teams will provide people with the tools to make decisions which will ensure they have a better future.”
“By intervening early and providing people with the support they need, we can engage them with the right services to significantly reduce their risk of homelessness.”
The outreach patrol program will be launched in the Murrumbidgee, Far West and Western NSW regions and is expected to reach 35-50 people in each town.
It will serve as a mobile office travelling through regional areas and bringing with it information on services such as Rent Choice and Bond Loans, as well as access to housing supports.
The mobile patrol will also connect with existing service providers in those areas, such as specialist homelessness services, to build stronger relationships.