By Natalie BennettFriday 17 Jun 2022Social JusticeReading Time: 2 minutes

Currently, more than 116,000 Australians are experiencing homelessness with the latest data revealing this could be on the rise, with access to secure housing becoming harder to acquire with rental prices increasing by up to 25% and vacancy sinking to below 1%.

Mornings with Fee spoke with with Lucas Patchett the Co-Founder & CEO of Orange Sky about how these factors combined with recent natural disasters, have created the ‘perfect storm’ for homelessness for Aussies living paycheck to paycheck, and the need for volunteers to help the Sunshine Coast van “Mikey” to support these individuals and families.

Listen to full interview in the player above. 

Concerningly, only 1.6% of private rental properties in Australia are affordable for those on minimum wage and between 0% and 1% for those on benefits. Additionally, consumer prices have surged, with the cost of living up 5.1% over the past year.

These spiralling costs combined with natural disasters like the recent flooding events that devastated parts of South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales, have created the ‘perfect storm’ for homelessness for Aussies living paycheck to paycheck, making the support provided by Orange Sky more important than ever.

To help those experiencing homelessness or doing it tough, Orange Sky provides free mobile laundry and shower services – as well as a place for connection and genuine, non-judgemental conversation. Each Week, Orange Sky operates nearly 300 shifts across metropolitan and remote communities, with a passionate team of over 2,100 volunteers – but the not-for-profit needs donations to continue to support Aussies doing it tough.

Orange Sky is encouraging Australians who can, to help them ensure everyone has access to clean clothes, warm showers and connection by making a tax-deductible donation. Visit orangesky.org.au to donate.