Growing ranks of homeless seen as society in decline

Growing homelessness is seen as a symbol of inequality and economic disempowerment, a pollster says. (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)

Australians believe growing homelessness is emblematic of societal decline, which could turn housing action into significant vote winner at the federal election.

The nation's housing crisis is quickly evolving into a emergency with 40 per cent of Australians from 24 battleground seats witnessing an increase in homelessness in their communities during the past year, Redbridge polling found.