An evocative exhibition is shedding light on the often-overlooked reality of homelessness among Australian women, particularly those over the age of 55. The event, titled ‘Walk in Her Shoes,’ organized by the Council to Homeless Persons, aims to foster deeper understanding and empathy by sharing personal narratives of women who have experienced housing insecurity.

The Scope of Women’s Homelessness in Australia

Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reveal a significant gender disparity in homelessness services. Women and girls constitute 60 percent of individuals seeking assistance, representing a substantial portion of the estimated 289,000 people who turn to these services annually. A particularly concerning trend highlighted by the exhibition is the surge in homelessness among women aged 55 and older, with earlier census data indicating an approximate 40 percent increase in this demographic over the decade leading up to 2021.

Family and domestic violence is identified as a primary driver of this crisis, accounting for over 40 percent of individuals accessing specialist homelessness services. The exhibition bravely confronts these realities through the lived experiences of women like Vanessa Heart and Diana Connell.

Personal Stories of Resilience and Struggle

Vanessa Heart, now 60, recounted harrowing experiences of sleeping rough in Melbourne’s outer west, hiding under hedges to escape predators and the harsh winter elements. Her journey into homelessness was precipitated by escaping an abusive marriage. “If the predators got a hold of you, they’d beat the crap out of you and they’d take whatever little you had,” she shared, describing the physical toll and lack of basic necessities like blankets and warm clothing. “It was very hard because at 60 years old, you’re old and your bones are really hurting and it’s cold.”

Diana Connell, a safe housing advocate, also shared her story of living in her car while battling lung cancer, with her teenage son studying in the back seat. She relied on public facilities like McDonald’s car parks to power her medical equipment. “It was terrible, but what gets me is that my situation is not unique,” Connell stated. “I always say to people, imagine if this was your mother or your sister… we need more compassion and we need more money from the government as well.”

Connell’s experience underscores the precariousness faced by many women, especially those over 55 who may have depleted their savings and superannuation supporting children, leaving them vulnerable. She co-designed the ‘Safe at Home’ program, aimed at keeping victim survivors of family violence securely housed, yet acknowledges the ongoing anxiety associated with renting. “Every time I pack up to shift to a different rental because it’s so insecure, I get panic attacks because packing boxes is a sign we could be homeless again any day,” she explained.

‘Walk in Her Shoes’ Exhibition Details

The ‘Walk in Her Shoes’ exhibition, hosted at the Box Hill Community Arts Centre, features these and other compelling stories to illustrate the diverse experiences of women facing homelessness across different age groups. Deborah Di Natale, CEO of the Council to Homeless Persons, emphasized the exhibition’s goal: to encourage the public to connect with these personal accounts and understand the multifaceted nature of homelessness.

“This exhibition asks people to sit with three of those stories and understand,” Di Natale said. “Homelessness can reach a young woman fleeing violence, a mum trying to shield her kids, or an older woman who has simply run out of options.”

Addressing the Social Housing Shortage

The exhibition also brings attention to the critical need for more social housing. Di Natale pointed out that Victoria is approximately 80,000 social housing properties short of the national average. While acknowledging the Victorian government’s recent commitment to build an additional 7,000 social housing properties over the next decade, with an initial $860 million allocated, advocates stress that this is merely a starting point.

“This will deliver even more social homes sooner, giving people in need a secure foundation,” stated Treasurer Jaclyn Symes regarding the government’s investment. However, Di Natale urged for a more substantial and accelerated building program to adequately address women’s safety and security needs.

Finding Hope and Giving Back

Despite the profound challenges, stories of resilience and hope emerge. Vanessa Heart, now in stable housing, volunteers with the Housing for the Aged Action Group, assisting others on similar paths. She cherishes simple joys, like her year-round Christmas trees, symbolizing a life where she can now celebrate holidays she missed in her youth. “When I finally got the keys to my place, it felt like heaven,” she reflected. “I know that I’m one of the lucky ones.” The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for support, resources, and systemic change to combat women’s homelessness.