More than 1,500 Brisbane children listed as experiencing homelessness in one year

Brisbane is facing a growing crisis of child homelessness, with new data revealing over 1,500 children were identified as experiencing homelessness in the past year. The figures, compiled by Brisbane Zero, a coalition of 32 organizations, show a near doubling of families seeking assistance compared to the previous year. Of the 984 families identified, 715 were headed by single mothers, highlighting the vulnerability of these households.

“

We know that experiencing homelessness as a young person increases your likelihood of experiencing homelessness across your life span.

Jonathan Dyer, Acting Regional Manager for the Salvation Army, described the situation as "quite dire," emphasizing the alarming number of children affected. He warned that experiencing homelessness as a young person significantly increases the likelihood of lifelong homelessness. "It is all about breaking cyclical homelessness experiences and taking people out of that system into a life where safe and stable housing is a trampoline into everything else that's positive," Dyer stated.

The data also reveals that 321 families were experiencing homelessness for the first time, and 268 identified as First Nations. While 318 families, including 558 children, were housed during the period, the overall numbers underscore a deepening problem. Micah Projects acting chief executive Bridget Kinch stressed that homelessness is not solely a housing issue, requiring a collaborative approach from health, housing, and community services.

“

It is all about breaking cyclical homelessness experiences and taking people out of that system into a life where safe and stable housing is a trampoline into everything else that's positive.

Adding to the complexity, the data shows a high prevalence of violence and safety concerns among those experiencing homelessness. 54 percent of individuals surveyed reported experiencing violence in the past year, and 52 percent did not feel safe where they sleep. Kinch also noted the significant health and wellbeing needs within this population. Despite a recent slowdown in new individuals being added to the list, services warn this reflects reduced capacity to reach those in need, rather than a decrease in homelessness itself.

“

This reinforces that homelessness isn't just a housing issue. It takes health, housing and community services working together to make a real difference.