'Claw that drags you down': Despair as homeless crisis escalates
The homelessness crisis in Wagga Wagga is worsening as winter approaches, leaving many individuals without shelter. Despite an emergency response initiated after a tragic incident, the number of people experiencing homelessness continues to rise. Local residents express despair over the lack of available housing and the challenges of securing stable living conditions.
- ▪The number of people sleeping rough in Wagga Wagga has nearly doubled to 25, according to the latest street count.
- ▪The total number of applicants on the NSW waiting list for social housing has increased significantly, from 58,218 to 69,051 in two years.
- ▪Rents in Wagga have risen sharply, with two-bedroom units now averaging $420 per week, making private rentals unaffordable for many.
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Wagga Wagga's homeless say they have 'nowhere to go' despite emergency responseLBy Lauren PezetStatelineTopic:HomelessnessThu 4 Jun 2026 at 5:30amThu 4 Jun 2026 at 5:30amThu 4 Jun 2026 at 5:30amabc.net.au/news/wagga-homeless-options-limited-despite-emergency-response/106743780Link copiedShareShare articleAs winter settles over the fog and frost-prone city of Wagga Wagga, there is a sense of despair among the growing number of people experiencing homelessness."I've already been wet," Deanne said."The stick's gone through the tent, so there's tape on that.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).