Experts have predicted a potential increase in unemployment, housing stress and homelessness for the Southern Highlands region due to COVID.
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This is based on new research prepared by Equity Economics for the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS).
The report looks forward to 2021, when JobKeeper is scheduled to end, and the rate of JobSeeker has potentially been reduced to its previous level of $40 a day.
The report reveals without interventions to strengthen the social safety net, there could be a 23.8 per cent increase in homelessness in the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions by June 2021.
Meanwhile the report predicted an 8.4 per cent rise in unemployment as well as a 12.9 per cent increase in housing stress.
NCOSS CEO Joanna Quilty said the report provided "a stark warning to the NSW government" of what could occur without intervention to stem rising disadvantage.
"Addressing disadvantage before it becomes entrenched will ensure that children, young people, families and communities can get the support they need to get through this recession," Ms Quilty said.
"It will be less costly and will ensure that the long-term negative impacts of the economic crisis are minimised.
"The community services sector has risen to the task but faces a challenging future to meet rising demand.
"With the right policies we can support those most at risk and rebuild our state to lift all citizens up."
If this article brings up any issues for you, you can contact the following hotlines:
- National debt hotline - 1800 007 007
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