Ritter Center’s Post

Advocacy is crucial in supporting an idea or plan, but collective advocacy takes it up a notch by amplifying the voice of people and groups with similar experiences and beliefs. Our compiled summary of the Queensland Government’s 'Homes for Queenslanders' Plan and the #HousingSummit Outcomes Report from 2022,highlights the collective work of our sector to secure key commitments in recent announcements. I think it’s always worth reflecting where a collective advocacy approach is working, especially in the ever-changing housing landscape. I'm grateful for like-minded groups across the Queensland housing and homelessness system that have come together to work with the sector and government on this agenda. While we may not agree on everything, we agree on most things. We still have a long way to go, but compared to the focus and attention on these issues two years ago, we are in a completely different place. Check out our summary linked below to reflect on the progress made and the work that still needs to be done. ➡️https://lnkd.in/grrzTad7⬅️ Let's continue to work towards better housing and homelessness solutions through collective advocacy. #housing #homelessness #homematters #bettertogether #housingsupply #affordability #queensland Q Shelter

🔍 **Law Tip of the Day: Advocating for Homelessness Policy and Funding** 🏛️ Today's law tip focuses on advocating for change in homelessness policies and funding. As citizens, we have the opportunity and responsibility to speak up on important issues that affect our community. Addressing the Mayor and Council Members at City Hall can be a powerful way to drive positive change in the area of homelessness. For nonprofits working in this space, it's essential to seek assistance and guidance on legal and funding matters. The Ofuani Legal Group stands ready to support organizations in navigating the legal complexities and accessing funding opportunities to better serve the homeless population. Advocacy matters. By raising awareness, voicing concerns, and pushing for policy changes, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community for those experiencing homelessness. Remember: Together, we can make a difference. **#LawTip #Advocacy #HomelessnessPolicy #FundingMatters #OfuaniLegalGroup #PolicyChange #contentcreator #explore #fye Stay informed, stay empowered, and keep advocating for positive change.

Budget Night 2024 was a busy one for the Policy and Advocacy Team. Federal Budget announcements were closely monitored especially announcements related to housing and homelessness, Jobseeker payments, Commonwealth Rent Assistance, and more. These budget announcements provide valuable insights into the government's priorities and policies, shaping our advocacy efforts in the year ahead. While we welcome the government’s announcements on housing and the increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance, there is still a long way to go in addressing the systemic issues of housing affordability and homelessness that continue to impact individuals and families across Australia. We remain committed to advocating for policies that provide the necessary support for those in need and address the root causes of these pressing issues. #FederalBudget2024 #Advocacy #HousingAffordability #Homelessness #PolicyMatters #JobSeeker #CommonwealthRentAssistance

Come use your voice to make sure we achieve rent stabilization and housing justice this legislative session. #advocacymatters #equityinaction

"Displacing people out of sight and out of mind, through tickets, sweeps, and arrests, only addresses the mounting public pressure to solve visible homelessness, but it does nothing to address the root of homelessness itself nor end anyone’s episode of homelessness. When elected officials focus on displacing people, it results in a rise in camping bans and other punitive policies. Instead of solving homelessness, this approach only: • traumatizes people experiencing homelessness, • creates additional barriers to accessing housing, • displaces people to other unsheltered locations, and • wastes taxpayer dollars. Compare: $10,051 annual cost to provide supportive housing for someone experiencing homelessness. $31,065 annual cost per person for a city to enforce unconstitutional anti-panhandling laws, maintain hostile architecture, and conduct police raids of homeless encampments."

The fight to end homelessness is a collective responsibility that requires a coordinated effort from all of us. The National Alliance to End Homelessness is leading the charge by mobilizing a diverse network of advocates, including policymakers, service providers, and community leaders. Together, we can leverage our expertise and resources to make a meaningful impact and ensure basic human dignity for all. Homelessness is a complex issue that demands a multifaceted solution. We must address the root causes such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, and addiction. It affects our economy, public health, and collective conscience, underscoring the need for a broader network of advocates to join the fight. Advocating for policies prioritizing affordable housing, supporting organizations providing vital services, and educating our communities are crucial steps. By coming together, we can create real change and work towards a society where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home. Let’s unite, persist, and commit to justice in our shared mission to end homelessness. #EndHomelessness #Advocacy #CommunitySupport

QCWA Advocacy is overwhelmed by these realities* being faced by people needing homelessness services! ➡ In 2022-23, 273,600 people were assisted by homelessness services. ➡ A further 108,000 people sought help but were unable to be assisted because of shortages of staff, or accomodation or other services. That's 295 people a day turned away because services are overstretched. ➡ 80% of those being turned away were women and children, many of whom are fleeing domestic and family violence. It's time to #FindaBetterWay. Follow the link in the comments to read more. #HW2024 #QCWAFindingaBetterWay. *AIHW, Specialist Homelessness Services Annual Report 2022-23.

I am a massive believer that looking after our communities most vulnerable is up to all of us. Almost two years ago I heard a statistic that I couldn’t turn away from – a staggering 8 out of 10 calls to women’s shelters in Tasmania could not be accommodated due to insufficient capacity (more than 6 times the national average)! A massive thank you goes to Di, state manager of family violence and Christen, family violence case manager from the Salvation Army, for putting up with me! Last week we successfully hosted the inaugural Women's Shelter Alliance workshop, marking the first time all six shelters in Tasmania have come together with the purpose of creating a unified voice for advocacy, empowerment, and systemic change. Addressing the complexities of family violence, women's shelters, and homelessness requires a system that is set up to support positive outcomes and a collaborative approach, that is led by the industry's knowledge, expertise, and those with lived experiences. A special shout-out to Alina Thomas CEO of Engender Equality, and Tania Farah, CEO of Safe and Equal in Victoria, for your presentations and willingness to share your experiences and time with us. And, of course, to all the shelters that have so eagerly embraced our vision and purpose – your partnership is the foundation of our future successes. The system is broken, and we want to fix it. It really is as simple as that. #WomensShelterAlliance #Tasmania #SocialChange #Empowerment #Advocacy #systemicchange

Did you know that in the last 5 years, 40-70% of respondents in the Housing Solutions Tulsa Point-In-Time Count reported a disabling condition as a factor in their homelessness? 🧐 "The intersection between homelessness and disability" sheds light on this critical issue, emphasizing the urgent need for support and advocacy. Discover the impact of this intersection between homelessness and disability, and how you can be part of the solution👊💥 Dive into our blog on the website for a deeper insight into this pressing matter. #soarpartners #intersection #HomelessnessCrisis #DisabilityAdvocacy #solution