There are fears the COVID-19 crisis could result in more people becoming homeless.
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Loddon Mallee Homelessness Network coordinator Mellissa Edwards said the potential for people to be forced from their homes during the pandemic was of great concern, with job losses affecting the ability to pay rent or mortgage.
"For people who are experiencing difficulty in paying rent the best option is to take action early by contacting their landlord to negotiate rent payments, while mortgage holders should contact their bank," Ms Edwards said.
She said there had not yet been a significant change in the number of people experiencing homelessness in the region, but if the situation continued, she expected to see an increase.
Restrictions also initially affected people's ability to access some services, but Ms Edwards said most problems had now been addressed.
"Agencies that provide material aid (food or financial assistance) experienced an interruption to the supply of some goods and the social distancing requirements also impacted on programs with a volunteer workforce, however, most of those issues have been resolved," she said.
Ms Edwards said the services that helped those at risk of or experiencing homelessness were still operating, just doing things differently.
"For example, Haven; Home Safe who provide generalist homelessness services have a 'virtual concierge', which means that people can still attend their office for assistance and speak to someone using video, while some other organisations have closed their doors but are still contactable via phone and or email," she said.
People experiencing homelessness were likely to feel more exposed to coronavirus at this time, Ms Edwards said, "because they may have no safe place to sleep or spend time in without having to have contact with other people".
But organisations had moved quickly, she said, using state government funding to put people up in hotels and caravan parks that had lost their usual customers because of travel restrictions.
"I am quite impressed by the work that's being done by all of the services," Ms Edwards said.
Those in need of advice on negotiating with landlords can contact Housing Justice in Bendigo on 5445 0990 or 1800 450 990.
Information on tenant rights is available on the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.
Haven; Home, Safe offers a generalist homelessness service for adults on 5444 9000, while Anglicare Victoria provides support to young people aged 16 to 19 years old on 5440 1100.
The National Debt Hotline can provide support to those with struggling with debts, on 1800 007 007.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
