Praying for the Future of Homelessness Support: A Christian Perspective on the 2024 Gold Coast Action Plan

Homelessness is a global issue that affects communities everywhere, and the Gold Coast is no exception. Known for its beautiful beaches and thriving tourism industry, the city faces its own set of challenges when it comes to housing insecurity. To address this crisis, the City of Gold Coast developed a comprehensive Homelessness Action Plan for 2024, with the goal of tackling the issue through a coordinated and multifaceted approach. Leading this effort is Cr Brooke Patterson, Member for Patterson and Councillor for Division 6 (which includes Southport, Benowa, and Bundall), whose leadership is driving this vital initiative forward.

As we move into 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that both action and prayer are necessary for supporting those affected by homelessness. The 2024 plan is a critical first step, but it’s important to recognize that our responsibility extends beyond this year alone. As Christians, we are called to pray not just for the immediate needs of the homeless, but for long-term solutions and lasting change.

Homelessness is not a single issue—it takes many forms. People who are sleeping rough on the streets are perhaps the most visible, but many others are facing housing instability in less obvious ways. The Gold Coast Homelessness Action Plan defines homelessness broadly to include individuals living in inadequate housing, whether that means unsafe conditions or overcrowded living arrangements. In addition, the plan highlights the issue of "couch surfers"—people who temporarily stay with friends or family but lack a permanent home. These often-overlooked individuals also require long-term support and stability.

The Gold Coast Homelessness Action Plan is designed with a clear focus on building a robust support network. The city is working with local organizations like the Gold Coast Homelessness Network to coordinate services and streamline responses. A key feature of the plan is the creation of a live dashboard that tracks homelessness data, allowing the city to monitor trends and identify areas where interventions are most needed.

Central to this strategy is outreach. Public Space Liaison Officers (PSLOs) are stationed throughout public spaces to engage with people experiencing homelessness, offering connections to vital services. By interacting directly with individuals who are sleeping rough, PSLOs are helping to bridge the gap between temporary homelessness and permanent housing solutions. The plan also emphasizes the importance of safe spaces—indoor shelters that not only provide protection from harsh weather but also foster dignity and a sense of hope for those who often feel marginalized by society.

Another crucial aspect of the plan is the advocacy for increased housing supply. The Gold Coast is pushing for more crisis, social, and affordable housing options, particularly for vulnerable groups like those escaping domestic violence. The city is also taking steps to make it easier for community housing providers to develop affordable housing by offering financial incentives such as rate donations and infrastructure fee discounts. Collaboration with the Queensland Government is vital in securing additional funding for outreach programs and case management services that will help reduce homelessness in the long term.

What’s Next: Prayers and Action

While the 2024 Homelessness Action Plan sets out a strong foundation for addressing homelessness, the work does not end there. As Christians, we must not only support these initiatives through prayer but also extend our prayers for 2025 and beyond, recognizing that the needs of the homeless will continue to grow and change. 

We are called to pray for the service providers—counselors, social workers, volunteers, pastors, and shelter staff—who will continue to serve the homeless long after the plan is implemented. Their work is often physically and emotionally taxing, and they will need our prayers for strength, wisdom, and resilience. It’s crucial that we also pray for the policymakers who are responsible for shaping the future of homelessness services. Proverbs 21:1 reminds us that “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord,” and we must pray for our leaders to be guided by compassion and justice.

Furthermore, we must remember that homelessness is not just a housing crisis; it’s a human crisis. As we pray, we must ask God to bring long-term healing and restoration to the individuals affected by homelessness, addressing not just their physical needs but their emotional and spiritual ones as well. Isaiah 58:12 speaks to the need for sustainable efforts that restore the lives of the displaced: “Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations.”

The Gold Coast Homelessness Action Plan offers hope, direction, and a roadmap for reducing homelessness in the region. However, this is just the beginning. As we move into 2025, we must continue to pray for the homeless, the leaders, and the organizations working to help them. Let us pray for wisdom, compassion, and strength to carry us through this journey, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus calls us to be the salt and light of the earth. Through our prayers and our actions, we can be the change that brings hope and healing to the most vulnerable in our communities. As we look toward the future, let us commit to both praying for and acting to end homelessness—knowing that every person deserves dignity, safety, and a place to call home.

Lord, as we lift up the 2024 Gold Coast Homelessness Action Plan and our leaders, we pray for those experiencing homelessness now and in the years to come. May Your mercy guide the hearts of leaders and service providers, equipping them with wisdom and compassion. We pray for lasting change that not only meets physical needs but heals emotional and spiritual wounds. We ask for Your strength to carry us through as we serve in Your name. May we be Your hands and feet in this important work, today and in the years to come. Amen.

Photo: The Rev. David Buck sits next to the Jesus the Homeless statue that was installed in front of his church, St. Alban's Episcopal, in Davidson, N.C.

Article by Shane St Reynolds.