The City of Busselton is partnering with Lamp Inc. and Accordwest to support individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness through the launch of ‘Your Story Matters: Access Assist Day’.
The collaborative initiative will be held at the Busselton Library every three months over a 12-month trial period, with the first Access Assist Day to take place on Monday, 3 November from 11am to 3pm at the Busselton Library.
In response to the growing demand for accessible and community-focused service models, this event will bring together a range of local support services under one roof. Participants will be able to access immediate assistance with housing applications, ID documentation and other practical support, all in a safe, welcoming environment, the Council said in a statement.
The program is designed to break down systemic barriers by providing real-time support and meaningful connections to multiple services in a single visit. It also aims to strengthen community resilience by offering consistent, visible and approachable support.
“Our libraries are trusted spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds come to connect, learn and feel safe. This initiative not only strengthens the library’s role as a community hub, but also expands its capacity to provide compassionate, accessible support to those who need it most,” said Mayor, Phill Cronin.
“Libraries are inclusive by nature. Having dedicated support professionals on site builds trust, reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help in a familiar environment. This partnership opens the door to deeper engagement with vulnerable community members and supports our goal of building a more resilient and connected community. I commend our library staff, Lamp Inc. and Accordwest for recognising the importance of such an initiative.”
Lamp Inc. Housing and Homelessness Advocate, Lee Hill said homelessness in the Southwest was on the rise, with the 2016/2021 Census showing a 62% increase in people experiencing homelessness.
“In the absence of immediate state and federal solutions, addressing this crisis requires a whole of community response – where local government, service providers and the broader community work together toward a shared purpose,” Ms Hill said.
“Your Story Matters: Access Assist Day is a strong example of that collaboration in action – an innovative and compassionate approach that recognises the complexity of people’s circumstances and the importance of accessible, coordinated support. It’s about community coming together to create connection, dignity and hope for everyone.”
