When we think about homelessness, it’s easy to picture someone sleeping on the street and separate ourselves from the hardship. But right now, across Australia, there’s a crisis unfolding that often goes unseen. A surprising number of women — including mums, working professionals, and women in their 50s and 60s — are finding themselves without a safe place to call home.
A growing crisis we can’t ignore
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there’s been a 30 per cent rise in newly homeless women over the past five years. These aren’t just statistics — they’re stories of real people blindsided by a system that no longer offers safety or stability. The reasons are complex and many: domestic violence, relationship breakdowns, financial hardship, and the soaring cost of housing all play a role.
Every hour, 3,000 Australians reach out to homelessness services such as Mission Australia for help. Many are women facing impossible decisions — such as staying in an unsafe home or sleeping in a car with their children.
A personal story of survival and strength
Consider the story of Janelle, a 60-year-old woman from South Australia. Supporting her elderly mother on a single income, Janelle’s life took a downturn when she lost her job. The onset of the pandemic delayed her access to support payments, forcing her to dip into her superannuation to cover essential expenses. Facing eviction and with no immediate options, Janelle prepared to sleep in her car — until it was stolen.
Despite these challenges, Janelle remained resilient. As she aptly put it: “Life happens but you can’t give up. Every day is a new challenge, but every day can bring a new gift.”
With the assistance of Mission Australia’s Toward Home – Prevent service, Janelle and her mother secured a safe place to call home. This program, works with the South Australian Housing Authority, to support individuals at risk of homelessness in finding stable housing.
Janelle’s experience underscores the broader issue of hidden homelessness among older women. In Australia, one in seven people experiencing homelessness are over 55 years old, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic.
Homelessness doesn’t always look like what you think
Contrary to the stereotypes, homelessness isn’t always visible. It can look like couch surfing, living in a car, or staying in overcrowded or unsafe conditions. And for women, these situations often go unreported — making the crisis even harder to manage and resolve.
This is why the work of organisations such as Mission Australia is so critical. Beyond immediate relief, they provide long-term support for women and families working to rebuild their lives. Their vision is simple but urgent: an Australia where everyone has a safe home and can thrive.
How you can help
This year, thousands of women like Janelle will be facing uncertainty and fear. A donation to Mission Australia can make a real difference by providing crisis accommodation, support services, and a path forward for women in need.
Behind every statistic is a story. And behind every story is a woman who deserves safety, dignity, and hope.
Donate today here.
*Name changed for privacy.
Mission Australia is one of Australia’s largest community services and housing providers, with more than 165 years of proven experience working with people in need. We have more than 470 programs and services, 4,550 social and affordable homes and almost 2,600 staff working to build hope and possibility for all. In 2023-24 we supported 160,520 people across the country.
