Community service organisation Social Futures, with support from the NSW Government’s Homelessness Innovation Fund (HIF), is set to deliver a game-changing 70-bed boost in temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness. Stage One of the Tweed Heads South project is anticipated to deliver up to 20 furnished apartments as early as April 2025 for people experiencing homelessness who live with disability or are aged 55 and over.
Community service organisation Social Futures, with support from the NSW Government’s Homelessness Innovation Fund (HIF), is set to deliver a game-changing 70-bed boost in Temporary Accommodation for people experiencing homelessness.
Stage One of the Tweed Heads South project is anticipated to deliver up to 20 furnished apartments as early as April 2025 for people experiencing homelessness who live with disability or are aged 55 and over.
Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said in reviving the currently vacant complex in Tweed Heads South, the initiative aims to provide more than just a roof over people’s heads.
“In reducing homelessness, we can build a more connected, inclusive, and resilient community,” said Mr Davies.
“An innovative service delivery model will see short term accommodation coupled with onsite wrap-around supports to address the underlying causes of homelessness, simultaneously improving the health and wellbeing needs of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”
“With onsite management, 24/7 security and access to professional wrap-around support services we will provide a safe and supportive environment for participants as they are supported to access permanent housing outcomes.
“We are excited about the community benefits of this project, and at this stage, we are working closely with Tweed Shire Council to meet all requirements.”
During a visit to the site this week, Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, spoke to the benefits of HIF funding in addressing homelessness and driving innovation.
“Homelessness and housing are impacting people right across the state, but this is being felt particularly hard here in the Northern Rivers region.
“We know we need smarter solutions to deliver housing, faster – and last year, we created the Homelessness Innovation Fund to do just that.
“The Fund is about giving trusted community housing and homelessness organisations such as Social Futures a solid foundation to trial new approaches as we work together to tackle the housing crisis.
“We want to move away from relying on expensive hotels and motels for temporary accommodation. These are not appropriate places for the elderly, people with disabilities or families – particularly women and children fleeing domestic violence.
“This project will give vulnerable people in the region access to the care and resources they need – not just a roof over their heads.”
With the help of Social Futures housing support staff and the expertise of specialist clinical staff, temporary accommodation participants will be safely supported on their journey toward securing sustainable permanent housing outcomes.
Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry, praised the project as being much needed.
“This type of development is exactly what we have been crying out for in the Tweed, not just a roof, but the support people need to get their lives back on track.”
Similar programs across Australia have shown that well-managed housing with support services leads to reduced homelessness, better social outcomes, and safer communities.
Subject to Council approval, up to 70 beds could be fully operational later in 2025, with support potentially expanding to assist a broader range of people experiencing homelessness.
While Social Futures will manage the property and service provision, Link2home is the most direct referral pathway into temporary accommodation.
Those experiencing homelessness and in need of emergency accommodation should contact Link2home, a phone line available 24 hours a day on 1800 152 152.
Following eligibility assessment by Link2home, approvals and length of stay are then determined by Homes NSW and participants are placed into available accommodation.
People at risk of or experiencing homelessness are also encouraged to contact Social Futures on 1800 048 310 as a range of support services are available in addition to seeking accommodation via Link2home.
