WIRE film and feminist chats: Bendigo St
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For long-term housing (such as public housing or private rental), you need to actively work with your local transitional housing manager (THM). Besides helping you solve your immediate housing problems, your THM gives you critical support when you are working out your long-term housing arrangements, whether you are applying for private rental or public housing.
Specifically, in terms of longer term housing options, a THM can help you to:
The reality with THMs
High demand and long waiting lists mean that many people who are eligible still don’t get accommodation.
Transitional housing is managed by the community sector and accessed through a transitional housing manager (THM). There are 19 THM programs run by non-profit and government-funded organisations, providing specialist homelessness support services across Victoria.
Each region has a THM that usually only works with people who currently live in, or whose last permanent address was in, that region. That means that your local THM can allocate transitional housing and refer you to a housing outreach worker only in your local area.
It’s best to call first before visiting a THM.
You can ask for help from your local THM if you have a Healthcare Card, you are homeless, or you have been in the private rental market and are facing eviction.
While some THMs work from drop-in centres, it is best to phone your local THM and explain your situation clearly. If you are facing imminent homelessness, ask for an emergency appointment. Download our booklet on ‘Dealing with a Housing Crisis‘ for more information and tips about dealing with an immediate or imminent housing crisis.
THMs only work with people who are either currently living in their designated area or whose last permanent address was in that area. Here is where you can get help to contact your local THM:
Like almost everything to do with housing services, getting information and help can be incredibly time-consuming, frustrating and confusing. Here are some simple things you can do to make the experience less stressful, and perhaps in the end, more rewarding.
High priority is given to people experiencing long-term or recurring homelessness. The demand for crisis housing is greater than what is available in Victoria. There is no guarantee of immediate access to crisis housing, even if you meet eligibility criteria.
A THM will need to see some important documents at your first appointment. Remember to take your Healthcare Card, at least two other forms of identification, and copies of any other documents that support your situation. These may include:
It’s important to maintain your Centrelink payments. If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, ask to speak to a Centrelink Community Engagement Officer (CCEO). These officers provide services to people of all ages who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. They can help you to understand, claim and maintain your income support payments. To contact a CCEO, ask at your local Centrelink service centre.
To find out more about your housing options or your local THM, you can contact WIRE at any time between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.