People who are experiencing homelessness are susceptible to poorer health. Ill health affects a person's capacities to think, manage, and work, and to be optimistic and to plan forward - these are all needed to increase one's chances of overcoming homelessness. This gives them fewer opportunities to participate in every day community life and activities.

Some people justify inaction by claiming it is the "fault" or "choice" of the homeless for being homeless without understanding the contributing issues such as domestic violence or unable to afford rent. We share this town with these people who are living in substandard conditions.

Grampians Community Health's Homelessness support workers assist individuals with their particular needs. In case management we work alongside the client to focus on their needs and goals. This may include developing flexible strategies, and empowering each individual to create their own support plan to achieve satisfactory levels of independent living.

By providing accommodation and support services to someone who is homeless, society is $19,811 per person per year better off through a reduction in health, justice and other government services.

Treasurer Joe Hockey's comment "The starting point for a first home buyer is to get a good job that pays good money. If … you have security in relation to that job, then you can go to the bank and you can borrow money and that's readily affordable," This comment affects everyone but in particular shows ignorance of the reality for people experiencing homelessness and the contributing factors.

Homelessness Prevention Week is next week, starting on Monday and ending Sunday. On Monday, August 3 they will be in Stawell at Shop 108, and will be in front of Fishers IGA on Friday, August 7. On Tuesday they will be in Ararat between Lyal Eales and The Reject Shop, as well as next Thursday. Next Wednesday they will be in St Arnaud at Weirs IGA.