Forum will give homeless a voice

CASEY’S homeless are starting to be given a voice and their battles and difficulties will again be highlighted with a special forum this month.
Homelessness and housing stress will be two key items on the agenda at the discussion that will take place at the Balla Balla Centre in Cranbourne.
Casey mayor Colin Butler said an impressive line-up of speakers would take part in the event.
“Speakers such as David Imber of the Tenants Union of Victoria; Associate Professor Chris Chamberlain from RMIT University and Darren Ray of the Victorian Local Governance Association as well as local representatives from support agencies have been selected to share their insights,” Cr Butler said.
“While, of course, housing stress is no laughing matter, well known entertainer and satirist Rod Quantock will MC the event and help engage participants to contribute to this important community issue.
“Access to affordable housing is not just an issue that affects some individuals in the inner city, there are serious concerns for at risk families of the urban fringe, who may be low waged and isolated, or heavily indebted living from pay to pay.
“Housing stress is an issue that affects the whole community and is particularly debilitating for those struggling to manage overly high rents and mortgages or who find themselves homeless,” he said.
Bookings for the event are required.
Morning tea and lunch is included and the session is free to the public.
Anyone wanting to book their place should contact the Health Promotion Team on 9705 5200 by Monday 8 October.
Indicate any special dietary requirements or interpreter services.
Transport can be provided from the Cranbourne Train Station by arrangement.
The forum will be held on Tuesday 16 October from 9.30am to 3pm.
Registration on the day is from 9am. The venue is the Balla Balla Community Centre, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne.