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Specialist homelessness services (SHS) should have tools available to support people seeking support for homelessness. The tools listed in this section can help SHS meet service agreement requirements. They also improve coordination of resources.
9.1 Funded Agency Channel
The Funded Agency Channel (FAC) has information on policies and procedures, templates, systems, training and guides. These help SHS meet service agreement requirements.
9.2 Vacancy Management System
The Victorian Homelessness Service System prioritises efficient service coordination. This way, individuals and families experiencing homelessness receive the most appropriate support. A key tool in achieving this goal is the Vacancy Management System (VMS).
The VMS is a central platform for all SHS to share information about available resources. This includes advertising vacancies in both housing and support programs, along with detailed program descriptions and referral processes.
Benefits of the VMS
- The VMS offers advantages for both SHS and individuals and families within the SHS. These include:
- The VMS streamlines the referral process by providing real-time information on available resources. This helps match clients to the most suitable program based on their specific needs and eligibility. The VMS provides clear and consistent program descriptions and referral processes for all SHS.
- The VMS fosters transparency and collaboration across the SHS. All SHS have access to the same information. This allows them to find resources best suited to their clients, regardless of their location or program options. This approach promotes efficient services and ensures clients get the support they need.
- By using the VMS, SHS can connect clients with the right programs. The detailed information empowers entry points to make well-informed referrals. This leads to more effective service delivery and improved client outcomes.
Homes Victoria requires the use of the VMS by all SHS. This ensures consistent and standardised resource sharing across the system. The VMS is available through Specialist Homelessness Information Platform (SHIP) or through a specific licence for non-SHIP users. Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) provide training on the VMS, for further information please refer to the SHS Learning Hub.
For access or more information, email Housing and Homelessness Support branch at Homes Victoria at HHS@homes.vic.gov.au
9.3 Electronic Referral System
The Victorian Specialist Homelessness Service System prioritises a secure and efficient referral process. This helps individuals and families get timely access to the right services. A key tool of this system is the electronic referral system (e-referral).
Benefits of e-referral are:
- enhanced security for sensitive client information shared between SHS
- improved efficiency as the electronic format streamlines the referral process, saving time for agencies
- clear and concise communication of client needs and relevant information.
Accessibility for all SHS
All SHS must have access to and use the e-referral system. For agencies using SHIP, the e-referral function is available in the platform.
Non-SHIP users
SHS that don’t use SHIP can still take part in the e-referral system. These agencies can integrate the e-referral function into their current CMS using an application programming interface (API). For help with API access, email the Housing and Homelessness Support Branch at Homes Victoria at HHS@homes.vic.gov.au
9.4 MARAM tools in the Specialist Homelessness Information Platform
The Specialist Homelessness Information Platform (SHIP) empowers SHS to align their practices with the Victorian Family Violence Multi-Risk Assessment and Management Framework (MARAM) Framework. SHIP offers MARAM risk assessment and risk management tools, including safety planning resources.
Benefits of SHIP's MARAM tools:
- Standardised approach. These tools reflect the latest evidence-based practices and MARAM requirements. This ensures consistent risk assessment and management across the SHS.
- Ongoing improvement. The tools are regularly updated to reflect evolving evidence and changing MARAM requirements.
For SHIP users, relevant MARAM training is available through the Council to Homeless Persons' SHS Learning Hub.