GSEM welcomes additional homelessness funding for Mornington Peninsula

MEDIA RELEASE

Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM) has welcomed the Victorian Government's announcement of a new homelessness outreach service for the Mornington Peninsula, saying it directly responds to proposals outlined in GSEM’s 2026-27State Budget submission.

The State Government today announced a $27.8 million investment to expand homelessness services across Victoria, including a new assertive outreach service for the Mornington Peninsula that will help rough sleepers access housing, health and social support.

GSEM Chair Simon McKeon AO said the funding was a positive step towards addressing growing homelessness across Melbourne's south east.

"Homelessness is one of the most pressing issues facing our region and local councils are seeing the impacts every day," Mr McKeon said.

"We specifically called for additional state government funding for outreach services and crisis support because we know that early intervention can help people access the support they need and prevent homelessness from becoming entrenched."

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, South East Melbourne recorded Australia's second highest number of homeless clients in 2023-24, with almost 10,000 people accessing specialist homelessness services.

GSEM's budget submission called for urgent investment to expand outreach capacity, increase crisis accommodation and strengthen pathways into long-term housing and support services.

The newly elected Mayor of Mornington Peninsula Shire, Cr Stephen Batty, also praised the announcement, saying that: "While there is no single solution to homelessness, this announcement recognises the importance of outreach services and coordinated support for people doing it tough."

"We look forward to continuing to work with the Victorian Government on longer-term solutions, including more social and affordable housing, health services and coordinated support."

ENDS

Media Contact - Maggie Hill (0404 196 452), maggie.hill@theagendagroup.com.au)

GSEM represents communities and businesses in the municipalities of Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Knox, Monash and Mornington Peninsula. The body includes representatives from each local council, and is supported by an Independent Board comprising Simon McKeon, Margaret Fitzherbert and James Merlino.See gsem.org.au