Housing and homelessness
In Brisbane's inner city:
- at least 350 people are homeless
- 4550 people live in unsafe or insecure accommodation
Affordable housing and homelessness are primarily the responsibility of the commonwealth and state governments.
However, Brisbane City Council seeks to complement them through civic leadership and facilitating partnerships that address the issue in Brisbane.
Homeless initiatives
Homeless Connect
Council, state government, businesses and community groups provide free services (such as haircuts, clothes, shoes, accommodation information, medical and legal advice) to the homeless for a day.
The Big Issue Street Soccer National Championships
Council is proud to sponsor The Big Issue Street Soccer National Championships to be held on Sunday, 19 July 2009 at South Bank 
.
Experience the success of the Street Soccer program as players from around Australia participate in the event.
Street soccer is an initiative that supports people who are experiencing homelessness, substance abuse or disadvantage and offers a mechanism for social change.
You can find more information about this event on The Big Issue website.
Public Space Liaison Officers
Council has a team of Public Space Liaison Officers who monitor public spaces and connect rough sleepers with vital services.
Red Cross Night Café
Council and the Australian Red Cross opened the cafe in 2001 to offer Brisbane’s homeless young people free meals and access to showers, toilets and health and legal advice two nights a week.
The cafe also runs workshops and arts based activities. The average age of Red Cross Night Café clientele is 15 years of age.
Community Housing Partnership
Council owned properties are made available to social housing providers for use in crisis and transitional housing.
The Brisbane Housing Company (BHC)
The BHC is a new non-profit company established through a partnership between Council and the state government. It provides affordable rental accommodation for people on low incomes, including some who are at risk of homelessness.
The BHC has over 600 units in Brisbane, with many more in development.
RecLink
Council has partnered with RecLink Australia to establish RecLink in Brisbane. RecLink provides a coordinated network of developmental, recreational opportunities for people who are experiencing homelessness or marginalisation.
More support for homeless people
There are community organisations that help the homeless everyday. If you would like to get involved, contact one of the following organisations:
