The North and West Homelessness Network (NWHN) is one of eight regional networks across Victoria funded to bring services together to share information, identify common needs and gaps in service provision, and establish close working relationships to promote and assist the best possible response to homelessness within a regional context. Core members are homelessness and family violence agencies receiving funding from the Homelessness Assistance Support Program (consisting of Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP) and the Transitional Housing Managers (THMs)).
There are two Network Coordinators in the region who manage the Network activities. These positions are auspiced by Wombat Housing and Support Services. A Steering Group made up of representatives from SAAP services, THM services, the auspice and Department of Human Services North & West Metropolitan Region, informs the general direction of the Network.
NWHN Vision: An end to homelessness
NWHN Aim: We aim to achieve this vision by creating opportunities for all N & W Homelessness Assistance Services to come together to:
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Develop an informed regional voice on homelessness;
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Address the causes of homelessness;
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Advocate for improved responses to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness; and
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Build the capacity of the regional service system.
The Network’s catchment covers the local government areas of Melton, Wyndham, Brimbank, Hobson's Bay, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, parts of the CBD of Melbourne in the West, Hume, Moreland, Whittlesea, Nillumbik, Banyule, Darebin and Yarra.