Homelessness is not just the result of too few houses. Its causes are many and varied.
Domestic violence, a shortage of affordable housing, unemployment, mental illness,
family breakdown and drug and alcohol abuse all contribute to the level of homelessness
in Australia (FaHCSIA, 2008). Homelessness is not a choice. Homelessness is one of the
most potent examples of disadvantage in the community, and one of the most important
markers of social exclusion (Department of Human Services, 2002).