Homeless helpline expanded to northern Queensland

A free Queensland Government telephone service helping homeless people to find a bed for the night is now available throughout northern Queensland.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said he was pleased to announce the expansion of the Homeless Persons Information Queensland help line to the Cairns and Townsville districts, following its commencement in Brisbane in April last year.

Mr Pitt said the free service operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week and could be accessed simply by dialling 1800 47 47 53.

“This free service offers advice and assistance to both the homeless and vulnerable people who are at risk of becoming homeless,” Mr Pitt said.

“Callers can receive practical advice such as where they might find a bed for the night, a shower or a hot meal.

“More than 8000 enquiries have been received since the help line commenced.

Mr Pitt said the Homeless Persons Information Queensland help line would undergo a further expansion by July when it would become operational statewide.

”It means that no matter where you are in Queensland, if you need assistance or advice about finding a meal or a bed for the night, there is only one number to call,” he said.

"By calling 1800 47 47 53, people can also access information about health, legal and financial issues, or be directed to support services that may prevent them from becoming homeless.”

Mr Pitt said the Homeless Persons Information Queensland help line was part of the Queensland Government's $235 million Responding to Homelessness strategy.

“The growing need for increased crisis accommodation and affordable housing options, remain a significant priority for the Queensland Government,” he said.

“Having a central point of contact such as the 1800 47 47 53 number means people won’t have to call numerous organisations to find a bed or a meal.

"It also means that individual service providers won’t have to answer as many telephone calls, so they can therefore spend more time with their clients.”

Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280