Homelessness

In the June 2023 quarter, 11.7% of job seekers who found work identified as having experienced homelessness, up from 11% a year ago.

8.8 % of women who found work identified as having experienced homelessness, as compared to 11.9% of women on our total caseload who identify as having experienced homelessness.

Observations:

• Homelessness can be an impediment to finding and maintaining employment. Whilst homelessness has been disclosed for a greater portion of our male customers, the impacts on employment are felt regardless of gender.

• People who experience homelessness are more likely to fall out of work - 9% more likely in the first month, 15% in the first three months and 30% in the first six months.

• Age is a significant factor when considering homelessness impacts on employment. Those under 30 who have experienced homelessness are 45% less likely to last in employment for six months or more. Those over 30 who have experienced homelessness are 29% less likely to last in employment for six months or more.

13.9 % of men who found work identified as having experienced homelessness, as compared to 16.8% of men on our total caseload who identify as having experienced homelessness.

• The real cost of recruitment can be up to two or three times the salary an employer is paying for a role. By looking for the warning signs and providing support to address a homelessness challenge for a staff member, employers might be saving tens of thousands in the long run.

• We know the nation is facing a housing crisis, and those who are struggling to make ends meet are at the bottom of every list. During the 2023 financial year Workskil Australia spent more than $130,000 on rent, crisis accommodation, tents, sleeping bags and swags. We know more needs to be done, and we want to be a part of that effort.

For comparison: In the March 2023 quarter 11.8% of job seekers declared having experienced homelessness. The breakdown of gender comparisons for those who found work against total caseload statistics were:

Women: 8.9% of women who found work identified as having experienced homelessness, as compared to 11.7% of women on our total caseload who identify as having experienced homelessness.

Men: 13.6% of men who found work identified as having experienced homelessness, as compared to 16.4% of men on our total caseload who identify as having experienced homelessness.