Aspire program

Australia’s first Social Impact Bond focused on supporting people experiencing persistent homelessness into housing.  

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.  

Intake for the Aspire program under the social impact bond model has been completed, however, additional funding from the State Government enabled an extension of the program (Aspire X) as a reduced intake until June 2027.  

The Aspire X program is delivering results beyond the initial scope of the social impact bond. Developed for adults aged between 18-55 who are 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 has 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. 

Key Services 

• Housing support: We aim 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: Our 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: We facilitate connections with the community to enhance self-worth and promote successful outcomes in all areas of life. 

Eligibility criteria 

To participate in the Aspire Program, individuals must: 

• Be experiencing chronic homelessness (minimum of a cumulative period of 3 months over the last 12 months) 

• Reside in metropolitan Adelaide 

• Be aged between 18 and 55 years at the time of referral. 

• Are not subject to any unresolved criminal proceedings relating to an offence 

• Are entitled to a Medicare card; and 

• Have not previously been included in the Aspire (SIB) Intervention Group.  

Referral process 

The Aspire Program accepts approximately 12 new participants each month until June 2027. Referrals can be made by: 

• Toward Home Alliance, Adelaide North West Homelessness Alliance, Family and Domestic Violence Alliance 

• Catherine House  

• South Australian Housing Trust 

• Community Housing Providers 

• Department of Corrections (Metropolitan Prisons). 

• SA Health (Metropolitan Hospitals) 

For a referral form or more information, please email aspire@huttstcentre.org.au.