Homelessness is a significant issue in Victoria, affecting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. If you are experiencing homelessness or are at risk, various services are available to assist with emergency accommodation, long-term housing, financial support, and legal advice.

This guide outlines key resources, legal considerations, and practical support available to individuals facing homelessness.

Housing Solutions

Emergency Accommodation and Crisis Support

If you require immediate shelter or are facing the risk of homelessness, the following services are available:

• Opening Doors Hotline: Call 1800 825 955, available 24/7 to connect with housing and support workers.
• Safe Steps (Family Violence Support): Visit Safe Steps or call 1800 015 188, available 24/7 for individuals fleeing family violence.
• Local Crisis Support Centres: Visit your nearest crisis centre for immediate support and assistance. Access Crisis Accommodation.
• Homelessness Advocacy Service: Provides information on your rights and assists in filing complaints about homelessness services. Visit Council to Homeless Persons.

Public and Social Housing

Public and social housing provide affordable rental options for individuals who cannot afford private market rates. Homeless individuals can apply for early housing through the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) to receive priority placement.

Visit the Victorian Housing Register to apply and access eligibility criteria.

Squatting and Legal Implications

Squatting refers to occupying a vacant property without the owner’s permission. While squatting itself is not a criminal offence, it can lead to legal consequences such as trespassing charges and civil claims by property owners.

Important Information:

• Property owners have the right to evict squatters and may seek police assistance to remove unauthorized occupants.
• In some cases, squatters may negotiate with owners to become tenants by demonstrating financial stability and offering rent payments.
• If you have occupied a property for 15 years, you may be entitled to claim ownership unless the property is government-owned. This requires proof of continuous occupation.

Financial Assistance

Centrelink Crisis Payment

If you are experiencing severe financial hardship and have been forced to leave your home, you may be eligible for a Centrelink Crisis Payment, which provides a one-off financial aid equal to one week’s benefit payment.

Eligibility criteria and application details are available on the Services Australia website.

Debt and Financial Support Services

If you are experiencing financial difficulties, services such as WIRE (Women’s Information and Referral Exchange) provide resources and guidance on financial support and budgeting assistance.

Specific Challenges and Legal Considerations

Family Violence

If you are experiencing family violence, you can apply for an intervention order to protect you from a family member. Various services can provide support for violence, abuse, and personal safety.

Key services include:

• Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: Call 1800 015 188, available 24/7.
• Magistrates’ Court of Victoria: Provides assistance in applying for a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO).

Begging

Begging is considered illegal in Victoria. Individuals found begging may face fines or legal action. Police often provide warnings but may intervene if complaints are received.

If you require financial support, it is advisable to seek assistance through formal services rather than resorting to begging.

Key Legislation

Understanding your legal rights under Victorian law can help navigate housing and tenancy issues. Key legislation includes:

1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997: Covers tenant rights and responsibilities.
2. Housing Act 1983: Governs public and social housing provisions.
3. Crimes Act 1958: Addresses trespassing and related offences.
4. Family Violence Protection Act 2008: Offers legal protection against family violence.

Resources and Support

Legal services and resources are available to assist homeless individuals in understanding their rights and seeking appropriate legal remedies.

1. Victoria Legal Aid: Offers free legal advice and assistance on tenancy, family violence, and financial issues.
2. Community Legal Centres (CLCs): Provide free legal services related to housing disputes, eviction prevention, and tenancy rights.
3. Tenants Victoria: Advocates for renters and offers support for tenancy-related legal matters.
4. WIRE: Provides extensive information and support services related to housing, financial assistance, and women’s welfare.
5. Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH): Provides public and social housing support for individuals facing homelessness and family violence.
6. Services Australia: Offers Centrelink payments and crisis support for those in financial hardship.

Conclusion

If you are facing homelessness or financial difficulties in Victoria, support services can assist with housing, financial aid, and legal concerns. Seek crisis support services for immediate help and explore Centrelink options for financial relief. Obtaining legal advice can clarify your rights and available solutions. Public and social housing through DFFH may provide long-term stability.

For expert legal support with housing, financial hardship, or family violence, Pentana Stanton Lawyers offers comprehensive legal assistance tailored to your unique situation. Our dedicated legal team provides compassionate guidance and practical solutions to help you navigate complex legal challenges related to tenancy disputes, financial aid applications, and protective measures for family violence victims.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards resolving your legal concerns with confidence and clarity.