Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, is encouraging Central Coast residents to contribute to the NSW Upper House Standing Committee on Social Issues, with submissions to close on May 29.
Tesch said 31 per cent more women over 55 had experienced homelessness in the 2016 Census compared with the 2011 Census. And she said she feared the situation was getting worse.
“I am deeply concerned about people aged over 55 experiencing homelessness,” Tesch said.
“We know the cost of living is rising and people are falling behind. Coasties are struggling to put food on the table, to cover the cost of their medical bills after Medicare cuts, and to meet rising rent prices.
“We should be looking after those who are vulnerable, not pushing them further into the risk of homelessness.”
Tesch said rising incidences of domestic violence had likely forced more older women into homelessness.
“If you or anyone you know is on the verge of homelessness, or is homeless and is over the age of 55, please write in to the inquiry,” she said.
“It is important real stories are heard, and the impact this situation is having on our community is communicated.”
To lodge a submission and for more information, visit: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=2865#tab-submissions.
Source:
Media release, May 16
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch