Homelessness rates on the increase

OVENS Valley has recorded the 26th-highest percentage increase in homelessness rates across the state, according to new data released by the Council to Homeless Persons. Assessing census data from 2016 to 2021, the analysis saw the Ovens Valley electorate record a 42 per cent increase in homelessness, with figures rising from 153 people to 218 over the five year period. The data means Ovens Valley currently ranks 18th among regional electorates, two spots behind Benambra (235) and well behind third-ranked Shepparton (435). Homelessness rates in South Barwon rose by 435 per cent between censuses, while six other electorates saw homelessness more than double. Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) chief executive officer, Deborah Di Natale, said the report into statewide homelessness highlighted the need for investment in social supports throughout Victoria. She called on the government to build at least 60,000 social housing properties over the next decade. “This report underscores the urgent need for targeted, substantial investment in social housing and homelessness supports across Victoria,” she said. “We are witnessing a clear and alarming escalation in homelessness in Victoria, highlighting a picture of stark inequality across both metropolitan and regional areas. “This investment is not just necessary, it’s critical to stemming the tide of homelessness – we can’t stand by and watch as this crisis continues to unfold – it’s time to act decisively and make a commitment that will lead to real, lasting change.” Northern Victoria MP Wendy Lovell said more needed to be done to provide homes for people given priority status, such as those escaping family violence, those who are homeless or those living with a disability. She said the March quarter Social Housing List reported 504 Wangaratta LGA families listed as priorities, with a total of 962 on the social housing waiting list. “Premier Daniel Andrews and Labor are leaving some of Victoria’s most vulnerable residents languishing on an ever-growing waiting list with little prospect of gaining a house any time soon,” she said. “The State Government likes to brag about its big housing build, but last week the minister admitted in the budget estimates hearings that the Housing Big Build will only add around 8000 additional social housing homes, which could leave almost 60,000 families languishing on Labor’s ever-growing waiting list.”

Homelessness rates on the increase

Missing Harrietville man reunited with family

Myrtleford Times, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Alpine Observer, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Near $10,000 grant sees Bright CFA get some new gadgets

Most popular stories

Missing Harrietville man reunited with family

Myrtleford Times, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Alpine Observer, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Near $10,000 grant sees Bright CFA get some new gadgets