- Latest News
The State Government has advised the City of Whyalla that another Code Blue response for homelessness services this winter has been issued.
People sleeping rough will be able to access extra services during wet and cold weather for the next ferw nights after the State Government declared the second Code Blue response this winter based on latest weather forecasts.
The Code Blue applies in Whyalla as well as the Adelaide metropolitan area, Port Pirie, Port Augusta, the Fleurieu Peninsula (KI), Murray Bridge and the Riverland.
Housing SA and the Homelessness Gateway Service (Uniting Communities) can activate a Code Blue when cold weather makes sleeping unsheltered potentially dangerous.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the Code Blue had been activated to help people sleeping rough in the affected regions from today until Monday 24 June.
"Given the predicted cold overnight temperatures, a Code Blue has been called by the SA Housing Authority in conjunction with the Homelessness Gateway Service in these areas to assist those who need it," Minister Lensink said.
"For people sleeping rough in these regional areas over the next few days, the Homelessness Gateway Service on 1800 003 308 can help find shelter if you need assistance," Minister Lensink said.
The Homelessness gateway operates 24/7 every day of the year. Anyone experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness is encouraged to call the Gateway at any time.
Minister Michelle Lensink thanked the people working to help rough sleepers stay warm and safe.
"It is thanks to the continued work of these services that some of the most vulnerable people in our community can stay warm in extreme winter weather," she said.
"People sleeping rough are vulnerable, which is why I encourage people to connect with homelessness service providers."
As recently as 5 June, homelessness services reconfirmed the current criteria and parameters as sufficient for activating a Code Blue.