Our learnings
Your support makes our impact possible.
Our approach
At Launch Housing, we believe homelessness is unacceptable, avoidable and within our reach to solve. Our Theory of Change underpins our impact measures as we work toward ending homelessness in Melbourne.
Housing First is simple but transformative: when people have a home, they can rebuild their lives. Safe, permanent housing, paired with flexible supports that uphold choice and self-determination, is the foundation for recovery, stability and wellbeing. Our approach is grounded in the belief that housing should come first, not be a reward for readiness.
Together, we can create a future where homelessness is rare, brief and non-recurring.
Our learnings
Homelessness in Victoria has shifted significantly
More people are sustaining their tenancies across our programs; evidence of residents’ resilience, effective support and conditions that help people stay housed.
Yet demand has intensified and diversified, driven by housing shortages, escalating rents and growing complexity among those seeking help.
What we have learnt over the last five years
Our data and experience show what works: integrated person-centred care, tailored family and child responses, and culturally safe pathways. It also shows where reform is needed.
- Front-loaded investment works. People who receive intensive early support are far less likely to return to homelessness, reinforcing the cost-effectiveness of our models.
- Tailored responses sustain housing. Prevention efforts such as the Private Rental Assistance Program, intensive supports like Better Health and Housing and long-term housing such as Elizabeth Street Common Ground reduce cycling through the system.
- Innovation needs scale. Philanthropy enables innovation, but sustained impact requires public investment and system reform.
- Data must evolve. Current measures reflect capacity, not unmet need. Strengthening data collection to accurately capture unmet demand.
The bottom line
Despite progress, system capacity and design are not keeping pace with Melburnians’ needs. Rising rents and limited housing supply continue to push families and individuals into crisis. The challenge is not only the number of homes but the right mix — social, community and affordable — paired with scalable, integrated supports.
Over the next five years we must partner across government, health, education, community and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to ensure housing is a lasting foundation for dignity, wellbeing and stability for everyone.
How can I help end homelessness?
There are many ways to support our work in helping to end homelessness in Melbourne. Whether through philanthropy, fundraising, volunteering, or becoming a partner, your involvement helps us drive meaningful change.
