National Homelessness Week – Robbie’s Story

Homelessness Week 2026 is from Monday 3^rd to Sunday 9^th August, with the theme Homelessness Action Now. 

Hosted annually by Homelessness Australia, the week aims to build community support and drive government action to end homelessness.

Throughout the week, homelessness services and community groups raise awareness of its impacts, highlight solutions, and advocate for change through events, media, and social media campaigns across the country.

A vital part of homelessness action is prevention.

Robbie’s story highlights how access to tenancy legal assistance can prevent eviction and restore housing stability, avoiding homelessness before it occurs.

Robbie* sought legal assistance from Circle Green in relation to the termination of his public housing tenancy. Robbie had missed his scheduled Court hearing by 30 minutes, and in his absence the Magistrate had made orders terminating his tenancy and giving him 14 days to vacate.

When Robbie contacted us, he was anxious and unsure where to turn. Losing his home of 20 years would have left him at risk of homelessness, with no real options for stable accommodation available to him. One of our lawyers reviewed the case and identified grounds to appeal the decision.

We worked with Robbie to file an appeal as well as negotiating with the Housing Authority to ensure they did not enforce the court order before the date of the appeal hearing. We also connected Robbie with support services to help address the underlying issues that had led to the termination.

After a successful appeal hearing, the original matter was relisted before the Court, but the Housing Authority then agreed to discontinue the proceedings. This meant the termination orders were set aside, and Robbie could remain in his home. The outcome brought him immense relief and the stability he needed to focus on his health and wellbeing.

Robbie’s case demonstrates the critical role of legal assistance in maintaining secure housing. Without timely intervention and sustained advocacy, he would likely have lost his tenancy. Instead, he was able to keep his home and rebuild his life with a sense of security and dignity.

Find out more about our Tenancy Services.

*Real name and photo have not been used. Identifying details are withheld to protect and respect confidentiality.