Disused aged care facility offers solution to tackle homelessness

AN aged care facility damaged in the 2022 flood will be converted into crisis accommodation to tackle the rising homelessness rate in Lismore, an initiative of the $100 million Homelessness Innovation Fund.

Fromelles Manor has remained empty since the disaster, and the investment of $768,862 will allow community service organisation Social Futures to deliver 30 self-contained en-suite rooms at the site for individuals and families.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson said the project represented the innovative approach needed to tackle the housing crisis.

“The 30 units in Lismore will give people across the Northern Rivers a safe and secure place to rebuild their lives during incredibly challenging times.

“We’re delivering on our promise to harness the expertise of non-government partners, frontline workers, and those with lived experience to fund innovative ideas and services that set us on the path toward ending homelessness in this state.”

Minister Jackson said relying on costly hotels and motels was not the solution.

“We need person-centred approaches that provide high-quality, tailored support and help people move toward stable, long-term housing.”

The 2024 Statewide Street Count data showed a steady rise in homelessness rates in Lismore, reflecting a trend of increasing homelessness across the North Coast.

Social Futures CEO, Tony Davies said the funding was welcome news for Lismore, one of the highest-need areas of the state outside of Sydney.

“The Homelessness Innovation Fund grant will enable us to deliver a unique support services hub model in the heart of Lismore’s proposed health precinct.

“It will meet the needs of the community’s most vulnerable and offer wrap around supports to benefit health and wellbeing.”

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the project was a vital step forward in addressing homelessness in Lismore.

“Transforming a disused facility into a safe and secure place for individuals and families shows what can be achieved when government, community organisations, and local leaders work together,” Ms Saffin said.

“Our region has faced extraordinary challenges, this funding ensures that some of our most vulnerable community members will have access to shelter and support when they need it most.”

Organisations can apply for a one-off grant Homelessness Innovation Fund to improve outcomes for people facing homelessness.

Applications are open until April 2025.

Go to www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding for more information on the grants.