About the policy
The Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Policy:
- Outlines our vision for a safe and inclusive community.
- Describes our goals to support people experiencing homelessness and reduce rough sleeping.
- Sets our aims for staff, community, and Council engagement.
- Identifies how we will achieve our goals through partnerships, outreach, and advocacy.
- Establishes clear targets to measure progress.
This Policy supports Theme 1: Enhancing Community Connection and Theme 6: Planning our future City in the Knox Council and Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029.
Read the full Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Policy to learn more.
Our vision
People experiencing homelessness in Knox are treated with dignity and respect, have access to appropriate services and housing, and are included as part of a safe and connected community.
Goals and aims
| Goals | Aims |
|---|---|
| Support people experiencing homelessness | Ensure staff respond consistently and connect people to services. |
| Collaborate with partner agencies | Provide timely assistance and outreach services. |
| Raise awareness | Educate the community and Council staff on homelessness issues and rights. |
| Advocate for housing and services | Identify gaps and influence funding and policy decisions. |
| Ensure staff safety | Maintain protocols, risk screening, and support measures. |
What we want to do
Goal 1: Support people experiencing homelessness
Goal 2: Work with local support groups
Goal 3: Raise awareness
Goal 4: Advocate for housing and services
Goal 5: Keep staff safe
What this means for you
If you are without a home or worried about losing your home:
- You have the right to be safe in public places.
- You can ask for help from Council or local services.
- You can call or email Council in your language if needed.
How we check our progress
Council will make sure this policy works by:
- Checking that staff follow the Policy and Procedure.
- Working with partner organisations and reporting on activities.
- Sharing information with the community about services.
- Monitoring social and affordable housing outcomes.
Need help?
Contact us and we will get back to you.
Or call our Short-term Support team on 9298 8000.
