Tasmania will join the national observance of Homelessness Week from 3-9 August 2026, an annual event to raise awareness and advocate for solutions to the growing housing crisis.
The national campaign, organised by Homelessness Australia, will carry the theme “Homelessness Action Now,” which the organisation says is a call for urgent, coordinated action to address the issue. Throughout the week, community groups and homelessness services will hold events to build public support and encourage government commitment to ending homelessness.
In Tasmania, the peak body for housing and homelessness, Shelter Tasmania, is promoting the week with its own message that “Housing Ends Homelessness.” The organisation highlights the severity of the local situation, noting that the rate of homelessness in Tasmania saw a 45 per cent increase between 2016 and 2021.
On Hobart’s Eastern Shore, the Clarence City Council announced its partnership with Shelter Tas to support the week of advocacy. The council stated it will illuminate the Richmond Bridge and its council chambers in Rosny Park in purple for the duration of the week as part of a statewide “Light up Tasmania” awareness campaign.
Across Australia, more than 122,000 people are experiencing homelessness on any given night, according to figures cited by multiple community organisations. The week is timed to coincide with the coldest months of winter, a period that presents increased difficulties for people without stable housing.
While specific Eastern Shore community events have not yet been detailed, other Tasmanian councils have announced activities. The City of Launceston has listed a “Walk to Raise Awareness” on 5 August. In the state’s north-west, an event focusing on hidden homelessness is scheduled in Penguin for 7 August, featuring speakers from the local council and The Salvation Army. Burnie City Council has also listed a “Walk for Change” on its calendar for the week.
Homelessness Australia provides resources for local organisations and individuals to participate in the week through its website. The original announcement from the Clarence City Council can be found on its official website.