This interactive workshop is designed to build the knowledge and skills of practitioners working with older people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness—one of the fastest growing and most vulnerable cohorts in the homelessness sector. Participants will explore the unique needs of this group, including the impact of premature ageing, limited housing options, and underutilisation of homelessness services.

The session will highlight effective, person-centred approaches to support, including how Wintringham has successfully implemented congregate, independent living models that promote safety, dignity, and community connection for older people. Practitioners will strengthen their capacity to deliver flexible support, advocate for client needs, and navigate aged care, health, and disability systems—particularly considering upcoming aged care reforms. Through real-world examples and discussion, this workshop empowers attendees to deliver respectful, inclusive, and sustainable support to a group that can easily fall through the cracks.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Understand how age can shape a person’s homelessness experience.
Identify the unique characteristics and needs of older people experiencing homelessness, including the effects of premature ageing and limited housing options.
Recognise the barriers this cohort faces in accessing traditional homelessness services and understand additional supports specific to older people that fall outside of this system.
Receive information on relevant aged care and disability resources (e.g., CHSP, Home Care Packages, NDIS, and Care Finder services) to connect clients with appropriate mainstream supports.
Advocate effectively for clients within and beyond the homelessness system, including in the context of upcoming aged care reforms (effective November 2025).

Facilitators:

Karen Lococo, Senior Manager Housing and Homelessness Support, Wintringham

Cassandra Politanski, Manager, Housing and Homelessness Support (Metro), Wintringham

Workshop Agenda

About Green Island

Facilitators