Homelessness

There are a number of services in Darebin that offer assistance to people in need of housing and homelessness support.

Council supports people seeking housing and homelessness assistance by providing information and referral to local support agencies.

We aim to respond to homelessness locally in a way that is respectful and upholds the dignity and wellbeing needs of people who are experiencing homelessness.

You can help people sleeping rough by notifying us using our online form. Please note we are unable to provide updates due to privacy and confidentiality.

If someone appears distressed, in need of physical help, in need of mental health help, appears to be a danger to themselves or others, please call 000 for emergency services.

Learn more about our support services below or you can download our Responding to homelessness in Darebin flyer(PDF, 7MB).

Homelessness Support Services

Darebin Assertive Community Outreach Program

Merri Outreach Support Service (MOSS) provide an assertive outreach program to people sleeping rough in Darebin. The Darebin Assertive Community Outreach (DACO) program aims to connect rough sleepers to support services. DACO consists of specialist outreach workers who can visit and respond to rough sleepers and connect them to services they need, including housing and health care.

A referral to the DACO program can be made through our online form or by calling Council's Customer Service team. Please note this is not an emergency response.

Phone: 03 8470 8888
Email: assertiveoutreach@darebin.vic.gov.au

Haven Home Safe

Haven Home Safe is the local access point for people who are experiencing homelessness in Darebin. They provide emergency housing and support information, assessments, advocacy, referrals to crisis accommodation or specialist support services, and limited financial assistance to establish or maintain rental tenancies.

Phone: 1300 428 36
Address: 713 High St, Epping VIC 3076
Hours open: 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

After hours emergency response to homelessness

St Kilda Crisis service is a statewide housing and homelessness service. Available 5pm–9am Monday to Friday and 24 hours on weekends.

Phone: 1800 627 727

Darebin's Community Shower Access Program

People experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping can access the Community Shower Access Program, which provides free shower and locker access at three locations in Darebin.

Reservoir Leisure Centre – Monday to Sunday
Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre – Monday to Sunday
Narrandjeri Stadium – Monday to Friday

Please note people interested in accessing the program will be assessed for eligibility and suitability.

For more information, please email csap@darebin.vic.gov.au.

Darebin Zero

In July 2025, Darebin City Council launched Darebin Zero, a collaborative project focused on ending rough sleeping in Darebin. Darebin Zero brings together local services and community partners to identify people experiencing rough sleeping, connect them with support, and work towards achieving Functional Zero homelessness across Darebin.