Abstract:

The importance of effective linkages between housing and other forms of assistance and support has been recognised as central for achieving positive outcomes for particular vulnerable groups in the community. The AHURI Effective Linkages project was developed to advance understanding of different ways to achieve effective program linkages. That is, to understand how government programs and government funded services can successfully provide housing assistance and associated supports to vulnerable individuals. In undertaking this project, people with a mental illness will be used as a case study group. The purpose of this paper is to outline the project and the background to the issues the project will examine. Through examination of the key relevant literature, the paper identifies the documented body of knowledge that already exists in relation to the topic, highlights knowledge gaps and describes how the project will seek to fill some of these gaps.