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Homelessness

Homelessness is a growing concern for local government across Victoria.

Victorian councils are reporting a surge in homelessness across the state and are being forced to respond despite this work being complex and challenging, yet they are not part of the conversation between national, state and community-led responses.

As the peak body for local government in Victoria, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) has, in recent years, heard more councils from across the state raise concerns about homelessness, a continuing lack of housing options and the growing challenges they face as community expectations and frustrations rise.

Together all governments and the community sector can end homelessness - it’s time to recognise and include local government in national and state arrangements.

Homelessness in Victoria

In 2024 MAV commissioned a survey and conducted focus group sessions examining local government responses to homelessness. A first of its kind in Victoria, local government officers from around the state were asked to comment on their local homelessness situations, council’s response efforts and future needs.

The survey responses form the basis of our 2025 Report: Homelessness in Victoria.

Homelessness In Victoria Report

Homelessness in Victoria report has caught the attention of the Local Government and Homelessness sectors, as well as the broader public.

MAV President Cr Jennifer Anderson spoke to Ali Moore on ABC Radio Melbourne: listen to the interview below.

The report was also featured in Local Government Focus and Government News.