Sydney, March 16, 2025
A growing number of older women in New South Wales (NSW) are facing homelessness, with statistics showing a sharp rise in recent years. Many women over the age of 55 are struggling to find stable housing due to financial insecurity, low superannuation balances, and the aftermath of domestic violence or health issues.
According to reports, the number of homeless older women in NSW increased dramatically between 2011 and 2016, and the situation has only worsened post-pandemic. Experts point to systemic issues such as a lack of affordable housing, gendered financial disparities, and an aging population without adequate support.
To address the crisis, initiatives like the Homes for Older Women (HOW) program have been introduced. The program connects women in need with homeowners willing to provide low-cost rental accommodations, ensuring a stable living environment. Advocates argue that while such programs offer short-term relief, long-term solutions like government-backed affordable housing projects and increased financial support for elderly women are urgently needed.
A 63-year-old woman who benefited from the HOW program shared her experience: “I had worked all my life, but after a divorce and a health setback, I found myself with nowhere to go. Programs like this give women like me a second chance at security and dignity.”
Experts warn that without significant policy changes, the number of older women facing homelessness will continue to rise, making it one of the most pressing social issues in Australia today.