Road to poverty relief in Australia

This October 2019 edition of ResearchPress explores the complex dimensions of poverty, homelessness for veterans and older Australians, the importance of social inclusion, and mental health prevention for our young people. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has found a sharp increase in the rate of over 55s receiving specialist homelessness services, especially for women. Declining rates of home ownership are contributing to housing stress as more older people are renting or paying off mortgages beyond retirement age. This is spurring action on many fronts, including a review of Australia’s retirement income system. Meeting the needs of older people through quality aged care services will be a key focus, after shocking findings by the Aged Care Royal Commission. The recent release of Ageing with Choice: Future Directions for Seniors Housing 2019-2024 will complement the forthcoming WA 10-Year Strategy on Homelessness and WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030. Alongside other initiatives in aged care planning, these can support the wellbeing of vulnerable older Western Australians.