Thursday, 24 September 2026

 Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) presented a petition bearing 131 signatures:

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council to the increasing pressure on individuals and families across our State arising from housing stress, cost-of-living pressures and food insecurity. More Victorians are at risk of homelessness, with many already experiencing crisis due to rising rents, financial shocks and limited access to early support.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to commit to a long-term housing strategy with clear targets to increase the supply of social and affordable homes for those most at risk of homelessness; invest in early intervention and homelessness prevention, including tenancy sustainment, integrated support models and food security in order to reduce pressure on crisis services; partner with the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria to help deliver these programs, and invest in local networks and volunteers as critical social infrastructure supports stability and prevents homelessness.