Solutions

Gender inequality is a key drive of homelessness. Policies must tackle the economic and social conditions that put women, trans and gender diverse people at greater risk, including:

• Closing the gender pay gap
• Fair access to flexible and secure work
• Adequate rates of income support
• Eliminating workplace and housing discrimination

Different groups experience homelessness in different ways. Housing policy must recognise and respond to the diverse housing needs of women, trans and gender diverse people, shaped by factors such as age, culture, language, visa status, ability, sexuality and race.

Family violence is the leading cause of homelessness. We need:

• Housing and family violence services to work together
• Dedicated pathways to long-term housing for those escaping violence
• Prevention and early intervention that reduce the risks of violence leading to homelessness

Housing should not be treated as a commodity but as a right. This means:

• Enshrining the right to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing in legislation
• A whole-of-government approach that connects housing policy with taxation, welfare, economic security, climate change, and urban planning

Policy and service design must be shaped with — not just for — those who have experienced homelessness and family and domestic violence. Co-design ensures better services and solutions grounded in real experience.

Investment in housing must be matched with funding for the services that help people access, maintain, and thrive in secure housing. This includes trauma-informed support, day-to-day management, and wraparound programs that enable recovery.