‘Your Story Matters: Access Assist Day’ supports people experiencing or at risk of homelessness

Published on Wednesday, 15 October 2025 at 2:20:24 PM

The City of Busselton is proud to partner with Lamp Inc. and Accordwest to support individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness through the launch of ‘Your Story Matters: Access Assist Day’. This collaborative initiative will be held at the Busselton Library every three months over a 12-month trial period. 

The first Access Assist Day will take place on Monday, 3 November 2025, from 11.00am to 3.00pm at the Busselton Library. 

In response to the growing demand for accessible and community-focused service models, this event will bring together a range of local support services under one roof. Participants will be able to access immediate assistance with housing applications, ID documentation and other practical support, all in a safe, welcoming environment. 

The program is designed to break down systemic barriers by providing real-time support and meaningful connections to multiple services in a single visit. It also aims to strengthen community resilience by offering consistent, visible and approachable support. 

City of Busselton, Mayor Phill Cronin said: “Our libraries are trusted spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds come to connect, learn and feel safe. This initiative not only strengthens the library’s role as a community hub, but also expands its capacity to provide compassionate, accessible support to those who need it most.” 

“Libraries are inclusive by nature. Having dedicated support professionals on site builds trust, reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help in a familiar environment. This partnership opens the door to deeper engagement with vulnerable community members and supports our goal of building a more resilient and connected community. I commend our library staff, Lamp Inc. and Accordwest for recognising the importance of such an initiative.” 

Lamp Inc. Housing and Homelessness Advocate, Lee Hill, said: “Homelessness in the Southwest is rising, with the 2016/2021 Census showing a 62% increase in people experiencing homelessness. In the absence of immediate state and federal solutions, addressing this crisis requires a whole of community response - where local government, service providers and the broader community work together toward a shared purpose. 

“Your Story Matters: Access Assist Day is a strong example of that collaboration in action - an innovative and compassionate approach that recognises the complexity of people’s circumstances and the importance of accessible, coordinated support. It’s about community coming together to create connection, dignity and hope for everyone.” 

Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Council Plan (2024 - 2034) Key Theme Lifestyle – Our community is safe, welcoming and inclusive, with access to services and facilities to support good health and wellbeing. 

Photo for general use - L-R: City of Busselton Mayor, Phill Cronin; Accordwest Case Worker, Rya Frost; Lamp Inc. Housing and Homelessness Advocate, Lee Hill; and City of Busselton Library Service Coordinator, Kerrin Hampson 

Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au

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