Trams are used by people experiencing homelessness as a source of shelter, warmth and safety. As operator of the world’s largest tram network, Yarra Trams drivers and staff regularly encounter people who need support.
Under the partnership, Yarra Trams will support our Advance to Zero program, which connects people sleeping rough to housing and services. Since the program began in 2019, rough sleeping has fallen by more than 50% from peak numbers in both the City of Melbourne and the City of Port Phillip.
We are providing training for a new role being piloted on the network. Trambassadors are staff dedicated to riding the trams and ensuring the safety of all passengers, including people experiencing homelessness. The training covers identifying when someone may need support, responding appropriately, and connecting people to services — with referrals passed directly to our team where needed.
The training has been developed by our Head of Systems Change, George Hatvani, who has nearly 30 years of frontline experience working with people experiencing homelessness.
“Yarra Trams staff encounter people experiencing homelessness every day. This partnership is about making sure that when those moments happen, people are met with care, empathy and understanding. It’s about giving staff the tools and know-how to help. That’s what a city that takes ending homelessness seriously looks like — everyone playing their part.” George Hatvani, Head of Systems Change, Launch Housing
Community advocate Vasileios Tsialtas, who participated in the training, said: “The collaboration is a bright light that reflects an innovative example of inclusion in action. It demonstrates the value of working together while strengthening connection, dignity and belonging.”
Also keep an eye out this winter for a special Launch Housing tram wrap carrying an important message across the Melbourne network.
