Homelessness facts
1 ABS (2021) Census of Population and Housing: Estimating Homelessness
2 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2022) Specialist homelessness services annual report 2021–22
Who are Australia’s hidden homeless?
Even if we don’t see it, homelessness is all around us. Hidden homelessness can happen to anyone, through no fault of their own.
The increased cost of living, impact of domestic and family violence, mental health issues and the lack of affordable housing for vulnerable people - these are all factors contributing to a homelessness crisis in Australia.
Every night, over 122,000 Australians are homeless1 - living in their cars, a garage or other temporary, often insecure accommodation.
They are Australia’s hidden homeless.
What Mission Australia is doing to help
The cost of homelessness is simply unacceptable in a country like ours, but we can all do something about it.
Your generosity can provide families who are doing it tough, the safety and stability of ‘home’.
Support for families
Circumstances shouldn’t define a person’s future. Your donation gives struggling families the opportunity for a brighter future. Providing immediate support like living essentials, and ongoing long-term solutions like counselling to help heal the trauma of homelessness.
Boost supply of affordable housing
There are simply not enough of the right type of homes that people can afford anymore. You’re helping Mission Australia build, buy, and manage suitable properties - and make sure people are supported to stay in them.
Homelessness prevention
Every Australian deserves a safe and secure home, but we can’t end homelessness without your help. We know that family violence and mental health are key contributors to homelessness. With your support, Mission Australia is increasing work in these and other root causes of homelessness.
Our promise to you
Mission Australia has been helping people move towards independence, and our commitment to this vital work has never been stronger.
Thanks to your support, together we helped 149,096 people in 2023 by combatting homelessness, assisting disadvantaged families and children, addressing mental health issues, fighting substance dependencies, and much more.
In 2023, 91.0% of our income went straight back into delivering services that assisted vulnerable Australians.
We appreciate every donation we receive and ensure that each dollar goes where it is needed most.