Challenge yourself this August and change lives

Every night, more than 122,000 Australians experience homelessness¹. And it doesn’t take much for the average person to slip through the cracks. Being homeless is not a choice, and it can and does happen to anyone. The increased cost of living, lack of affordable housing and impact of domestic and family violence are all factors contributing to a homelessness crisis in Australia.

Take 122,000 steps during National Homelessness Week this August and you’ll help fund crucial support services that provide a pathway out of homelessness and towards independence.

Steps For Safe Homes asks you to undertake a significant personal challenge. It won’t be easy. But you’ll be standing together with Australians in need, who desperately need help.

Homelessness can happen to anyone. And it does, sometimes quite literally overnight

Lisa* was only 8 years old when her family became homeless.  Single parent to Lisa, Roger* unexpectedly lost his job at the same time that his weekly rent was increased. Roger went to countless job interviews, having to rely on savings in the meantime.  After a few months his savings were gone, and he simply couldn't afford rent anymore.

Heartbreakingly, he and Lisa were evicted from their home and their only option was to move into a friend’s garage.

Sadly, on any given night, 122,000 Australians like Roger and Lisa are experiencing homelessness.^

Mission Australia found Roger and Lisa temporary accommodation, and provided ongoing assistance while Roger found employment and became more financially independent, ultimately securing a long-term, safe home for his family. 

“I can’t tell you how much better things are now, for Lisa especially. She is much more settled, and has a proper space to do homework again. I love seeing her smiles again.”

^ABS: Census of Population and Housing: Estimating Homelessness (2022)

*Name changed to protect the identity of the people we help.

About Mission Australia

At Mission Australia, we believe every person across the country should have access to safe and secure housing.

Every day we deliver homelessness crisis and prevention services, provide social and affordable housing, address mental health issues, fight substance dependencies, support people with disability and much more.

We work closely with people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness to tackle the root causes of challenges faced by struggling families and children - by providing access to safe, affordable homes and innovative, evidence-based support services.

We stand together with Australians in need, until they can stand for themselves. 

There is increased need for our services right now. Thanks to your participation in the inaugural Steps For Safe Homes challenge we can offer crucial, nationwide support services to help more children, families and individuals who are doing it especially tough.