First nations women worst affected by the housing crisis - Embargo: Monday, 7 August 2023

First nations women worst affected by the housing crisis Embargo: Monday, 7 August 2023 The number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait women and girls accessing specialist homelessness services has skyrocketed to a record high in the past five years, according to a new analysis that will be launched at Parliament House today to mark National Homelessness Week. [...] Speaking at an event on Ending First Nations Homelessness in Parliament House on Monday 7 August, First Nations leaders and Homelessness Australia highlight how lack of housing and high rates of homelessness compromise the safety of First Nations women and children’s and the broader wellbeing of First Nations families and communities, and identify the solutions needed to end homelessness. [...] “Ultimately women attributed all of these issues to a systems failure, of not investing in housing and not appreciating that housing is a fundamental part of our cultural lives, as well as community, social, economic and regional development.” Ivan Simon, CEO of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Association, said: “The stark reality is that our First Nations women bear a d. [...] “We must work together to break the cycle of housing insecurity and provide holistic support that ensures the safety and well-being of First Nation women and children. [...] “We must significantly increase the commitment to funding and resourcing equitable housing solutions, empowering our First Nations communities and taking meaningful steps toward closing the gap once and for all.” Aboriginal Housing Victoria CEO and Aboriginal Housing and Homelessness Forum Chair Darren Smith said: “Australia must recognise the intrinsic link between safe and secure housing, and th.