Hardship support

Find out about services and resources to support people experiencing hardship

Homelessness

The City recognises that homelessness is not just the result of too few houses. Its causes are many and varied. Domestic violence, a shortage of affordable housing, unemployment, mental illness, family breakdown and drug and alcohol abuse all contribute to the level of homelessness. Homelessness is one of the most potent examples of disadvantage and social exclusion in the community.

According to the 2021 Census estimates, the City was estimated to have 465 people who were homeless, which was an increase from 226 people in 2016.

The City of Armadale seeks to address the issue of primary homelessness through coordination of the relevant departments, and supporting sector organisations and service agencies involved in this area.

Vulnerable or homeless people, including those sleeping rough, have the same right to be in public spaces as other community members. It is not illegal to beg or sleep rough.

If you are concerned for the welfare of a person sleeping rough, please phone the City of Armadale on 9394 5000. A Ranger will respond and provide information and support.

Private property owners can ask those loitering, begging or sleeping rough to leave their premises. If this instruction is not followed or you are concerned about a person’s behaviour, phone WA Police on 13 14 44 for assistance.

South East Metro Emergency Relief Forum

The City facilitates the South East Metro Emergency Relief Forum comprising of government and not-for-profit organisations that support people in financial crisis, experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness, or long term socio-economic disadvantage. The forum meets quarterly to share service information and learn about new programs. To join the forum please contact the City by phone on 9394 5000 or email info@armadale.wa.gov.au.

Hardship Resource Directory

If you, or someone you know is experiencing hardship, download our Hardship Resource Directory for details on organisations who can assist with:

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Emergency accommodation
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Meals, food vouchers and food parcels
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Financial assistance 
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Food and clothing 
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Drugs and alcohol support
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Domestic and family violence support
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Showers and laundry 
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Health and wellbeing 
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Housing support 
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Download Hardship Resource Directory

Hardcopies of the Hardship Resource Directory (available in business card size and slightly larger that meets accessibility standards) are available at City libraries, the Administration Building, Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre, the Champion Centre and from City of Armadale Rangers. Copies are also available from many local support services.

SalonSafe

The hairdressing industry plays an essential yet often overlooked role in addressing family and domestic violence (FDV). Salon staff are often exposed to incidences of FDV through their conversations with clients. Recognising that salon workers are in a unique position to provide support and resources to victims of family violence, the City of Armadale is offering training and resources to staff of hair salons and barbers so they may better understand and respond to FDV concerns.

Salons are invited to participate in SalonSafe, a project of the City of Armadale that provides:

• Free, 90-minute training session in the local area by FDV expert trainers, tailored specifically to this industry to help staff know what to look for, what to say to a client, and what to do to safely support a person in need,

• Written resources for each participating salon that reinforces the training and provides practical advice for responding to FDV.

In addition to being able to support clients, participation in SalonSafe will give salon managers practical tools to support their staff.

This opportunity is available to staff of any hair salon or barber operating in the City of Armadale and is fully funded by City of Armadale.

For more information, please contact City of Armadale by phone 08 9394 5642, email CSAdministration@armadale.wa.gov.au or check back on this page for upcoming training dates.

Let's Connect Expo

The Let's Connect Expo is an event held annually so residents can learn about community and government services that provide support to the community. This year’s Let’s Connect Expo is showcasing 50 services that provide support to seniors and people with disability living in the Armadale area. Types of services include:

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Employment Services
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Home Care
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Health and Wellbeing Services
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Emergency Relief
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Social Wellbeing
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Event Details:

Date: Thursday 30 April 2026

Time: 10am to 2:30pm

Venue: Kelmscott Hall – 60 River Road, Kelmscott