The rubber hits the road on project to cut rough sleeping

Sydney’s cross-sector End Street Sleeping Collaboration is being hailed as a “unique and vital” effort in addressing rough sleeping, with new technology, the By-Name List (BNL) now delivering life changing results.

Mission Australia’s Stefan Mackenzie, who previously worked in the community housing sector, has praised the collaboration for its level of cooperation rarely seen in other parts of the social services system.

“Coming from a more competitive environment, it was almost too good to be true,” he said.

“Services, councils, hospitals — all sitting together, sharing resources and ideas to improve outcomes for people sleeping rough.”

Stefan Mackenzie foresees positive change using the By-Name-List.

At the heart of this effort is the By-Name List — a real-time, person-specific database that tracks individuals experiencing homelessness and the services involved in their care.

Mr Mackenzie described it as a vital mechanism that reduces duplication and strengthens service coordination.

“We’ve seen cases where the BNL flagged that a client was already being assisted, allowing us to redirect support and avoid doubling up,” he said.

More than just a list, the BNL acts as a shared platform enabling practitioners to access up-to-date information, convene case conferences, and coordinate across agencies without relying solely on informal networks.

“Without the BNL, we’d still be dependent on who you know, or whether you’re on the right email thread,” Mr Mackenzie said.

“Now, any service can immediately plug in and contribute meaningfully.”

This winter, ESSC anticipates a growing demand, fuelled by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and persistent evictions from both public and private housing.

Mr Mackenzie expects colder temperatures will provide more opportunities to engage with rough sleepers, many of whom may be more willing to consider housing options during harsh weather.

“There’s always a steady stream of new people ending up on the streets,” he said. “But winter can be a call to action — a moment where discomfort motivates change.”

A particularly concerning trend is the rise in older women, particularly those over 55, sleeping rough or in cars — a demographic that Mr Mackenzie said is increasingly visible, especially in areas like Sydney’s inner west.

Despite the challenges, Mr Mackenzie remains optimistic. “This level of collaboration is rare — but it’s working,” he said. “And with tools like the BNL, we’re better equipped to respond in real time and help more people off the streets.”