Australia’s first homelessness-focused social impact bond, the Aspire Social Impact Bond, is providing long-term support to individuals impacted by homelessness, offering stable accommodation, job readiness training, employment pathways and life skills development.
Delivered by Hutt St Centre in partnership with Social Ventures Australia, the Government of South Australia and community housing providers, the Aspire program represents a landmark change in the way homelessness services are provided in South Australia.
In March, the positive impact of Hutt St Centre’s Aspire Program was recognised when it was awarded the 2025 Impact Enterprise of the Year at the Impact Investing Awards in Sydney. The award highlights the power of innovative, collaborative approaches in creating lasting social change and solidifies the centre’s commitment to supporting individuals impacted by homelessness.
Supporting those experiencing chronic homelessness
Launched in 2017, the Aspire Program was developed for adults aged between 18-55 experiencing chronic homelessness and living in metropolitan Adelaide.
The program supports participants with intensive case management support through three stages — stabilisation, re-engagement and monitoring. Participants receive individualised, case management support based on their needs. Intensity and type of support fluctuates through the three-year support period.
By achieving strong outcomes in employment, housing stability and overall wellbeing, the Aspire programs have proven to significantly reduce participants’ reliance on State Government services.
Notably, the programs generate substantial cost savings through reductions in hospital bed days, convictions, and emergency accommodation support, underscoring Aspire’s impact on both individual lives and the efficiency of public resources.
Beyond significantly improved tenancy retention rates and reducing demand of government services, Aspire has profoundly impacted lives, helping men and women reconnect with communities and rebuild their lives. Aspire strengthens communities and invests in the future of South Australians.
The program supported over 575 individuals during its initial term, with 81% securing housing and 85% maintaining their tenancies. Participants also experienced significant reductions in their use of crisis services, including a 29% decrease in hospital admissions, a 33% reduction in convictions and a 73% decline in emergency accommodation usage. Additionally, 41% of participants were supported into secure employment.
The program’s success has led to continued funding from the South Australian Government, ensuring its operation until at least mid-2027. This ongoing support reflects the program’s effectiveness and its integral role within the broader homelessness service system.
Key services provided
Housing support: Hutt St Centre aims to prevent homelessness by assisting individuals in accessing and maintaining tenancies, working closely with the South Australian Housing Trust and various Community Housing Providers.
Case management: Hutt St Centre Case Navigators provide support across multiple life domains, including accommodation, education, employment, physical and mental health, and addressing alcohol and other drug concerns.
Community integration: Hutt St Centre facilitates connections with the community to enhance self-worth and promote successful outcomes in all areas of life.
The Aspire Program is accepting around 12 new participants each month until June 2027. For a referral form or more information, please email aspire@huttstcentre.org.au.
If you would like to donate, please head to https://www.huttstcentre.org.au/donate.
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