Homelessness in the North East surges under Labor’s cost-of-living crisis

As Victoria marks Homelessness Week (August 4–10) under the national theme “Homelessness Action Now”, The Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, says it’s a critical moment to highlight the alarming rise of homelessness in the North East, driven by skyrocketing costs and a lack of affordable housing under the Allan Labor Government.

New data from local housing providers shows a 21.8 per cent increase in people seeking support in Wangaratta, with over 500 individuals currently homeless and waiting for accommodation or specialist support across the North East and Goulburn Valley.

“These figures are not just numbers, they represent real people who can no longer afford to keep a roof over their head,” Mr McCurdy said.

“Under Labor, the cost of everything has gone up, food, rent, fuel, and power; and affordable housing is almost impossible to find, especially in our regional communities.”

Local service providers are under enormous strain, with more than $700,000 spent on emergency accommodation last year alone. Without enough dedicated crisis or long-term housing, many are forced into motels or caravan parks with no clear pathway forward.

Mr McCurdy said the situation was particularly dire for young people, with over a quarter of those seeking help under the age of 25.

“Youth, families and older residents are falling through the cracks. Labor’s tax-heavy approach is making things worse, not better.”

“There is an urgent need for affordable housing options across our region, but instead Labor continues to pour money into city-based projects while regional communities are ignored.”

Mr McCurdy said unless urgent action is taken to address housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures, more families in the North East will be pushed into crisis.

Labor can't manage money, can't manage housing and regional Victorians are paying the price.