Contact information to assist people in financial hardship, currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Background
Sleeping rough is commonly referred to as being homeless; however, it is only one component of the broader term of “homelessness”. The Australian Bureau of Statistics defines a person as experiencing homelessness if they do not have suitable accommodation alternatives and their current living arrangement:
- is in a dwelling that is inadequate;
- has no tenure, or if their initial tenure is short and not extendable; or
- does not allow them to have control of, and access to space for social relations.
This includes persons living in; improvised dwellings, tents, sleeping out, in cars, buses, trains, and buildings not designed for housing (rough sleeping); supported accommodation for the homeless; temporarily with other households; boarding houses; other temporary lodging; and living in severely overcrowded dwellings. It is not illegal to beg or sleep rough in public places, and a person cannot be arrested or moved on simply for sleeping rough or begging. However, there are some circumstances where the WA Police Force are able to respond, where an illegal activity has occurred, and may include trespass on private property, street drinking and aggressive or antisocial behaviour.
Aim
The aim of these resources is to provide services and support for people experiencing homelessness in the City of Gosnells and share information regarding agencies that deliver services for vulnerable residents at risk.
Updates
Please refer back to this page to get the latest versions of the documents which will be reviewed and updated to the most recent information where possible. If you identify any edits or additions to the information, please notify the Community Development Team on 08 9397 3000 or info@gosnells.wa.gov.au
Information can also be found on the following Emergency Service Directory - WAConnect
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