The Bendigo-based service has seen a reduction in its capacity since the state government withdrew $3 million from the Social Housing Advocacy Support Program in 2012.

A report released by the agency's managers network showed 78 per cent of public tenants under by the program avoided eviction.

Housing Justice manager Mim Dineen said the result demonstrated the program is an effective way for people to avoid homelessness.

"Since the funding cuts in 2012, the service in the Loddon Mallee has reduced the capacity for advocacy for public tenants," she said.

"We now have almost no capacity to assist in areas such as appeals of DHS policy decisions, requests for transfers and negotiating on debts for repairs and maintenance.

"The number of clients we can assist has been reduced, as has our staffing levels."

The program supported tenants to get back on track with their rental payments.

The cut in funding coincided with a greater shift to a "case management" model from the previous advocacy model.

The report found just three per cent of clients relinquished their tenancy or were evicted. It also found the service cost $1958 per client, compared with $34,000 for the DHS to support a person through homelessness services.

Ms Dineen said the program was needed in Bendigo more than ever.

"Data on the number of evictions in the Loddon Mallee area are difficult to find, however the issue of homelessness and lack of crisis accommodation is certainly increasing," she said.

"Local homelessness agencies are working together to consider how we can better identify the need and address support to those at risk of homelessness.

"We welcome discussions with all candidates and members of State parliament and hope that the recommendations detailed in the Paper are considered as part of future funding to the program."