Greens propose $5.2 billion plan to end homelessness

The Greens will announce a new plan today to tackle homelessness in Australia. The plan aims to provide permanent homes and support services for all 37,800 people living in chronic homelessness. The proposal includes a budget of $5.2 billion to create 50,000 supportive tenancies within four years, with 20,000 reserved for at-risk youth. It also calls for building 40 supportive accommodation facilities. Funding for this initiative would come from taxing large corporations, including banks. Greens housing spokesman Max Chandler-Mather stated that the plan emphasizes that everyone deserves a secure home, rather than requiring individuals to prove their worthiness for housing. In contrast, Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has ordered that rough sleepers be moved from parks, claiming that they turned down offers for accommodation. This decision faced backlash during a council meeting, with some attendees expressing their disapproval vocally. Meanwhile, the Albanese government is set to reduce the price for prescription medicines as part of their healthcare plans. The patient co-payment will decrease from $31.60 to $25, benefiting millions of Australians who struggle to afford their medications. Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the importance of healthcare access. In other news, an audit revealed defects in southeast Queensland's stadiums, with the government acknowledging more work is needed before the 2032 Olympic Games. The popular restaurant Za Za Ta, favored by musician Billie Eilish, has closed after six years. On the sports front, Broncos coach Michael Maguire is reshaping the game of star player Payne Haas, while Queensland rugby stars are being considered for the upcoming Wallabies squad.