The battle to end street sleeping gathers momentum in 2026

Last year marked a defining chapter in New South Wales’ efforts to end street sleeping, with major system reform, measurable outcomes and growing momentum across the sector, according to the End Street Sleeping Collaboration (ESSC).

Despite significant challenges, the year delivered substantial progress, particularly through the continued development and implementation of the By Name List.

For the first time in NSW, homelessness could be measured and tracked in real time, allowing services to understand how long people experience homelessness and whether it is rare, brief and non-repeated.

This work directly influenced the NSW Government’s new ten-year Homelessness Strategy, which places a person-centred approach at the heart of policy and commits to strengthening local collaboration networks and introducing a statewide street sleeping registry.

The By Name List has now been licensed nationally through the Australian Alliance to End Homelessness and adopted in Western Australia, South Australia and regional Victoria.

In NSW, collaboration networks including Sydney Zero and Northern Rivers Zero continue to grow, with more than 270 registered users across 24 organisations in Inner Sydney alone.

High levels of engagement have driven targeted action, including improved temporary accommodation practices, stronger evidence on women experiencing primary homelessness and increased support for tenancy sustainment.

Other key initiatives included a NSW Health pilot granting health professionals access to the By Name List, the Early Engagement Module, a performance management tracker and a focused project supporting women rough sleeping around Central Station.

Dominic Sullivan, co-chair of the End Street Sleeping Collaboration and a Director of the PAYCE Foundation, said the progress reflects years of collaboration and sustained commitment.

“As the founding philanthropic partner of the End Street Sleeping Collaboration, the PAYCE Foundation has seen firsthand what is possible when government, community organisations and philanthropy align around shared outcomes,” Sullivan said.

“The By Name List has fundamentally changed how homelessness is understood and addressed in NSW, and its impact will continue to be felt for years to come.”

While short term funding agreements are welcome, in 2026 we will continue to advocate for a long-term government commitment to ensure this vital work remains sustainable and that less people find themselves living on the streets.