Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) has called on the Victorian Government to fund safer housing solutions for transgender and gender-diverse Victorians experiencing homelessness, in the upcoming state budget.
In its budget submission, Victoria's peak homelessness body highlights the urgent need for dedicated crisis and transitional housing facilities, alongside research and practice development.
For just $15 million over four years, the government could make an enormous difference in the lives of transgender and gender-diverse people.
The submission calls for:
* $5.3 million in construction costs for a dedicated crisis-transitional housing facility specifically
* $4.7 million over four years to run the facility
* $5 million over four years to be invested in research and practice development tailored to the unique needs of this group
CHP CEO Deborah Di Natale said the funding was critical.
"In a society that strives for equality and safety for all, it's unacceptable that transgender and gender diverse Victorians facing homelessness are left vulnerable to harassment, violence, and discrimination," she said.
"These budget measures would not just provide a safe haven, but foster a centre of excellence that can spearhead the development of best practices.
"This would ensure specialised support services are equipped to meet the complex needs of trans and non-binary individuals.
"Our commitment to ending homelessness means leaving no one behind, especially our transgender and gender diverse Victorians who face unique challenges.
"This funding isn't just an investment in housing; it's an investment in dignity and equality.
"We urge the Victorian Government to recognise the urgency of this issue and make this modest but crucial investment in the upcoming budget."
One in three LGBTQIA+ Australians experience homelessness at some point in their lives, a figure that is even higher among trans individuals.
