Beyond move on orders: Australia, let’s choose housing, listening, and collaboration

I have been watching with horror as the USA’s leadership has been loudly and proudly announcing homelessness move on orders.

Over recent months we have seen relatively quieter move on actions in the Brisbane and Moreton Bay council areas (amongst others). Our local narratives have claimed that suitable alternative housing has been offered but, while we do know that housing works (along with suitable, but optional, supports), we also know that housing in Australia is broadly insufficient and unaffordable and that there has been little to no consultation with the people most affected by these decisions.

The USA's leadership is modelling how to respond to issues of mass inequality with violence. Australia's leaders have an opportunity to model a different response - one that is more effective and humane rather than just less loud.

Housing works. Listening and responding to lived/living experiences works. Community collaboration works.

Rather than adding too much of my own voice to the mix this week, I am instead encouraging you to check out the living experience advocacy work of Irene Schynol: https://www.ireneschynol.au/