Prolonged cold weather in our regions has prompted a Code Blue extreme winter weather response for people sleeping rough in regional South Australia from tonight.
During a Code Blue activation, Housing SA, together with its non-government partners, makes additional accommodation available for extended hours for people sleeping rough.
People needing assistance in the following areas should contact the 24/7 ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway on 1800 003 308.
Starting from tonight to Friday, August 7, a Code Blue is activated in:
* Murray Bridge
* Mt Gambier
* The Riverland
* Kadina
* Clare
* Port Pirie
A Code Blue will also be activated in Ceduna from Wednesday to Friday, August 7.
“Predicted cold weather in the regions is expected to reach below five degrees for five nights or more and that’s why we, together with our homelessness partners, will be activating a Code Blue this week,” said Minister Lensink.
“People who are experiencing homelessness in these regions and need assistance to take shelter from these conditions can call the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway on 1800 003 308. This number operates 24/7, every day of the year.”
Minister Lensink said a substantial number of people experiencing homelessness were still in motel rooms as part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s swift coronavirus pandemic response.
“Supporting South Australians into safe, secure and stable long-term housing is our continued aim and we are committed to helping people into a range of housing options following their stay in motels,” said Minister Lensink.
Current Code Blue criteria, as determined in conjunction with the Government’s NGO partners, includes:
* Conditions predicted to continue for at least three days by BOM with any two of the following: temperatures dropping below an average night-time low of 6C, significant rainfall and damaging wind, OR
* Conditions predicted by BOM to continue for at least five days, when temperatures drop below an average night-time low of 5C
