Homelessness is rising. Local street counts record only a few dozen rough sleepers, however the number rises to over 700 when including hidden forms of homelessness. Many people are transient or couch surfing to avoid unwanted attention because they have no stable accommodation.
Over the past two years our community has been witness to the rising number of rough sleepers, particularly in the Toronto township. Local support organisations report record numbers of people seeking assistance with accommodation and food support. The NSW policy on Homeless People in Public Spaces affirms, people experiencing homelessness have the right to seek shelter on public land. This does not mean anti-social and dangerous behaviour should be tolerated in our communities.
My office has regular interactions with rough sleepers in the area, and fields countless enquiries from concerned residents regarding the growing number of encampments and their impact on public health and safety. My team and I are working closely with appropriate agencies and support providers and an action plan has been developed to target this growing issue, provide assistance to rough sleepers and transition them into sustainable accommodation.
Safe Haven for DV Survivors
In 2025 there were 1008 recorded domestic violence incidents in Lake Macquarie, with many more unreported.
In May I joined Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison MP, Dawn Walker, CEO Jenny's Place Domestic Violence & Homelessness Support and James Adrichrem from Housing Plus, to turn the sod on a $5.9 million women’s refuge in Lake Macquarie.
It’s being built under the NSW Core and Cluster program and delivered by Housing Plus with Jenny's Place providing support services.
Opening mid-2027, it consists of nine, pet friendly, self-contained units, providing safety and privacy. Unlike others, the refuge allows teenage boys and adolescents to stay with their mothers.
It’s a terrible reality, but every refuge built is a step forward in making NSW a safer place for families escaping violence.
Turning the sod on a $5.9 million women’s refuge in Lake Macquarie
If you are experiencing homelessness and require assistance with HomesNSW, Link2Home, Aboriginal Housing Office or other non-government social housing providers, you can find more details HERE
