Lexi Webster
Homelessness is associated with a higher risk of adverse health, social, and economic outcomes. People experiencing homelessness in Australia have significantly higher rates of death and chronic illness compared to the general population. They die, on average, 22 to 33 years younger. While the exact number of homeless deaths in Australia each year is unknown, research from the University of Western Australia's Home2Health and the Australian Alliance to End Homelessness identified 56 people who died in Perth in 2021, with similar numbers expected across the rest of the country. This article will explore the number of homeless deaths in Australia annually and the factors contributing to this tragic issue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Median age at death for homeless people in Perth in 2021 | 51 years old (52.1 for men and 45.3 for women) |
| Median age of death for the general Australian population | 81.7 years |
| Number of homeless people who died in Perth in 2021 | 70 |
| Number of homeless people who died in Perth in 2020 | 56 |
| Number of homeless people in Western Australia in 2021 | 9,729 |
| Number of homeless people in Western Australia in 2016 | 9,005 |
| Number of homeless people in Western Australia who were sleeping rough in 2021 | 2,315 |
| Number of homeless people in Western Australia who were sleeping rough in 2016 | 1,083 |
| Average age gap between homeless and general population in Australia | 22 to 33 years |
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What You'll Learn
Homeless people die 22-33 years younger than housed people
Homelessness is associated with a higher risk of adverse health, social, and economic outcomes. People experiencing homelessness in Australia have significantly higher rates of death and chronic illness compared to the general population. Australian studies have revealed that homeless people die an average of 22 to 33 years earlier than those with housing. This is due to a variety of factors, including malnutrition, dental problems, exposure to violence, long-term unemployment, and the development of chronic health issues.
The median age of death for homeless people in Perth in 2021 was 51 years old, with men having a slightly higher median age of death at 52.1 and women at 45.3. This is in stark contrast to the median age of death for the general Australian population, which is 81.7 years. These figures represent a 30-year gap in life expectancy between the two groups.
The factors contributing to this disparity in mortality rates are complex and interconnected, involving mental and physical well-being, housing, culture, and socioeconomic circumstances. One of the key issues is the late detection of preventable diseases and poor access to prevention and screening services. For example, homeless individuals may have difficulty adhering to treatments for existing health conditions due to challenges with medication storage, transportation to health appointments, and maintaining personal connections.
The risk of mortality for non-elderly homeless individuals is 3.5 times higher than for those with housing. This disparity is even more pronounced when compared to the mortality gap between Black and white individuals in the general population, which stands at 1.4. Additionally, homeless individuals without formal employment, lower incomes, and limited family connections are especially vulnerable to premature death.
The issue of homelessness in Australia is widespread, with over 122,000 people estimated to be experiencing homelessness in 2021, a 5.2% increase since 2016. Of these, 56% were male, 58% were under 35 years old, and 20% identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. The increase in homelessness has put a strain on homelessness services, with up to one-third of people in need of short-term or emergency accommodation being turned away.
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Causes of death include malnutrition, violence, and disease
Homeless people in Australia face a significantly higher risk of death and chronic illness compared to the general population. Severe overcrowding is the most common form of homelessness in the country, with 39% of homeless people living in severely crowded dwellings in 2021. This form of homelessness can lead to the rapid transmission of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, and induce psychological stress.
Malnutrition is a prevalent issue among the homeless population in Australia. The lack of access to adequate food and the difficulty in maintaining a balanced diet while experiencing homelessness can lead to malnutrition, which can have severe health consequences and increase the risk of death.
Violence and victimization are also common issues faced by homeless people. They are often exposed to physical and sexual violence, which can result in injuries and trauma. Additionally, the lack of safe and secure housing can make them more vulnerable to assaults and other forms of violence.
The exposure to various health risks, including infectious diseases, respiratory problems, and mental health issues, contributes to the high rates of death among the homeless population. The lack of access to proper healthcare and the difficulty in managing existing health conditions can lead to the development and exacerbation of chronic illnesses, further increasing the risk of premature death.
The life expectancy of homeless people in Australia is significantly lower than that of the general population. Studies have suggested that people experiencing homelessness die, on average, 22 to 33 years younger than those who are housed. This mortality gap is largely due to conditions that could be effectively treated with appropriate healthcare.
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Deaths among WA homeless people are on the rise
Deaths among Western Australia's homeless population are on the rise, according to recent research. The problem has become more visible in Perth, where growing numbers of rough sleepers have been recorded in recent months.
In 2021, at least 70 homeless people died in Perth, equivalent to 1.3 deaths per week. The median age at death was just 51 years old, a stark contrast to the general Australian population's median age of 81.7 years. This data is likely an underestimate, as it is based on information from hospital records and homeless services in Perth.
The University of Western Australia's (UWA) Home2Health, in collaboration with the Australian Alliance to End Homelessness (AAEH), identified 56 people who died in Perth in 2021. This research involved creating a "by-name list" of everyone sleeping rough in WA and cross-checking it with hospital departments and the coroner's office to identify those who had died.
Professor Lisa Wood of the University of Notre Dame has been tracking deaths among the homeless population in Perth and identified 107 deaths in 2022, about double the number from two years prior. Wood's research highlights the link between homelessness and ill health, with the risk of adverse health, social, and economic outcomes increased for those experiencing homelessness.
The Western Australian government has acknowledged the issue and is investing $2.4 billion in social housing and homelessness services over four years, including $225 million specifically for homelessness. However, the rise in rough sleeping rates and the number of support services turning people away suggests that more needs to be done to address this growing crisis. Homelessness in Australia is a complex issue that requires a coordinated response from government and support services.
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70 homeless people died in Perth in 2021
In 2021, at least 70 people experiencing homelessness died in Perth, equivalent to 1.3 people dying every week. The median age at death was 51 years old, with the median age of death for men being 52.1 and 45.3 for women. This is a stark contrast to the median age of death for the general Australian population, which is 81.7 years. This data highlights a 30-year gap in the median age of death between the homeless and the general population.
The high number of deaths among the homeless population in Perth is a concerning issue. Research suggests that people experiencing homelessness are dying decades younger than those who are housed. The factors contributing to these premature deaths are complex and interconnected, involving mental and physical health, housing, culture, and socioeconomic circumstances. Homelessness can lead to health problems such as malnutrition, dental issues, and exposure to violence and victimisation. It can also result in long-term unemployment and the development of chronic illnesses.
The deaths among Perth's homeless population in 2021 were likely an underestimate. The Home2Health Research Team and homeless services in Perth collated the data from WA hospital records and health services. However, it is challenging to track homeless deaths accurately, and the issue of homelessness in Perth has gained media attention. Protests have occurred following the death of Alana Garlett, a Noongar mother who died on the streets in July 2020.
The Western Australian government has recognised the issue and developed the state's first homelessness strategy. They have committed to spending more on social housing and funding initiatives like the By-Name List to improve data collection and service delivery for the homeless population. Associate Professor Lisa Wood of the University of Western Australia has been instrumental in tracking and researching homeless deaths in Perth, matching hospital records with client lists from service providers.
The issue of homeless deaths extends beyond Perth, with national studies revealing the impact of homelessness on life expectancy. A 15-year longitudinal study found that even a single episode of homelessness significantly increases the risk of premature death. The Australian Alliance to End Homelessness has called for a national approach to address the issue and improve data collection on homeless deaths. The lack of specific data on homeless deaths in Australia hinders the ability to implement effective solutions.
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The Australian government is investing $225 million in homelessness services
Homelessness is a pressing issue in Australia, with people experiencing homelessness facing a significantly higher risk of adverse health outcomes, social issues, and economic disadvantages. The median age of death for homeless people in Perth, Western Australia, was just 51 years old in 2021, a stark contrast to the general Australian population's median age of 81.7 years. This represents a gap of over 30 years, highlighting the vulnerability and early mortality faced by those without stable housing.
Recognizing the urgency of addressing homelessness, the Australian government has committed significant resources to tackle this challenge. As part of its efforts, the government is investing $225 million in homelessness services, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting those in need. This substantial investment reflects the government's recognition of the complex and interconnected issues surrounding homelessness and its dedication to making a tangible impact.
The funding will be allocated to various initiatives and programs aimed at reducing homelessness and improving the lives of those affected. This includes increasing the availability of purpose-built student accommodation with an investment of $2.1 million over four years from 2024 to 2025. Additionally, the government is introducing the Help-to-Buy scheme, which will support up to 40,000 eligible households in purchasing a home. This scheme will provide an equity contribution of up to 40% for new homes and 30% for existing homes.
Furthermore, the government is strengthening renters' rights through the Better Deal for Renters package, which includes requiring reasonable grounds for eviction, limiting rental increases, and introducing minimum rental standards. The National Housing Infrastructure Facility will also receive more flexibility to invest, making it easier to build new social housing and affordable homes. The government is committed to reducing homelessness and improving access to safe and affordable housing for all Australians.
The investment of $225 million in homelessness services is a significant step forward in addressing this complex issue. By providing resources for various initiatives, the government aims to make a lasting impact and improve the lives of those experiencing homelessness. This comprehensive approach, which includes increasing housing options, strengthening renters' rights, and providing much-needed support, reflects the government's dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of its most vulnerable citizens.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no official data on the number of homeless deaths in Australia. However, research from the University of Western Australia's Home2Health and the Australian Alliance to End Homelessness identified 56 people who died while sleeping rough in Perth in 2021. This data is likely an underestimate of the true figure.
The median age of death for homeless people in Perth in 2021 was 51 years old (52.1 for men and 45.3 for women). This is over 30 years younger than the general Australian population, with a median age of death of 81.7 years.
There are various factors that contribute to the high rate of premature deaths among homeless people in Australia. These include late detection of preventable diseases, poor access to health services, difficulty adhering to treatments, and "deaths of despair" related to drug overdoses, suicide, and alcohol-related diseases.
Homelessness is associated with a higher risk of adverse health outcomes. It can lead to malnutrition, dental problems, exposure to violence and victimization, long-term unemployment, and the development of chronic illnesses. The longer a person remains homeless, the poorer their health outcomes tend to become.
There have been calls for a national approach to measuring and addressing homeless deaths in Australia. The Western Australian government has invested $2.4 billion in social housing and homelessness services over four years, and the Commonwealth has been urged to take responsibility and improve data collection on homeless deaths.
