Anyone can experience housing stress or be at risk of homelessness at different points in life.

For veterans and families of veterans, this risk can sometimes be shaped by the unique challenges of service and transition to civilian life.

Homelessness doesn’t always mean sleeping rough. It can also include:

• staying with friends or family because you have nowhere else to go
• living in temporary or unstable accommodation
• staying in a situation that isn’t safe or secure
• struggling to keep up with rent or mortgage payments.

If your housing situation feels uncertain, you’re not alone and support is available.

What can increase the risk

There is no single reason someone may be at risk of homelessness. It’s often the result of several factors happening at the same time.

Some of the common factors include:

Life changes and transition

• Transitioning from Defence to civilian life can affect housing, employment and support networks
• Adjusting to new routines and systems outside of service can take time

Financial pressure

• Changes in income or employment
• Cost of living pressures or housing affordability
• Unexpected expenses or debts

Health and wellbeing

• Mental health challenges or psychological stress
• Physical injury, illness or disability
• Experiences of trauma

Relationships and social connection

• Relationship breakdown or family conflict
• Social isolation or lack of support networks

Access to housing and services

• Limited availability of affordable or suitable housing
• Difficulty accessing services or navigating systems

Early signs to look out for

You or someone you care about may be at risk if:

• rent or mortgage is becoming hard to manage
• you’re worried about losing your housing
• you’re moving frequently or relying on others for a place to stay
• your living situation doesn’t feel safe or stable

Recognising these signs early can make it easier to access support and keep housing secure.

You’re not alone

Experiencing housing stress can feel overwhelming but it’s more common than many people realise.

Many veterans and families of veterans go through periods of instability, particularly during times of transition or change. With the right support, it’s possible to stabilise your situation and move forward.

Getting support

If you’re at risk of homelessness, there is support available to help you stay housed or find stable accommodation.

Support may include:

• connecting you with local housing and homelessness services
• checking you’re receiving all the support and entitlements available to you
• helping you access financial, health, or wellbeing support
• personalised support to understand your situation and options

There are also veteran-specific services and organisations that understand your experiences and can provide tailored support.