Noelene Garlett, a tireless advocate for the rights of homeless individuals, passed away earlier this month at the age of 62. Her legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to creating a more just society for all. Remembering Noelene Garlett: A Champion for the Homeless
Ms. Garlett’s journey was marked by challenges and triumphs. A resident of Perth Tent City, she spent years advocating for the rights of homeless people before finally securing public housing, where she lived until her passing. Her determination and activism played a pivotal role in shaping public discourse and policy on homelessness in Western Australia.
As part of the Tent City protest movement, Ms. Garlett campaigned for more immediate accommodation for homeless individuals and long-term investment in public housing. Her efforts contributed to a record $2.6 billion investment in public housing in Western Australia’s 2021 Budget, demonstrating the power of grassroots advocacy in effecting systemic change.
Even after securing stable housing, Ms. Garlett continued to speak out on behalf of the homeless community. She served as a lived experience consultant for Shelter WA, using her voice to amplify the voices of those experiencing homelessness and advocate for meaningful policy reforms.
Ms. Garlett’s impact extended beyond her advocacy work. She was a devoted mother, cherished by her daughter Doreen Garlett, who fondly remembers her as a loving and resilient role model. Ms. Garlett’s cousin, Kellie Garlett, organized a GoFundMe campaign to support her funeral expenses, highlighting the deep sense of community and solidarity that defined Ms. Garlett’s life.
Jesse Noakes, a fellow campaigner and friend, paid tribute to Ms. Garlett’s legacy, describing her as a housing campaigner and advocate who tirelessly fought for real outcomes from the government. Despite facing adversity, Ms. Garlett remained steadfast in her commitment to social justice, advocating for culturally relevant education, language preservation, and equitable access to housing and healthcare.
Ms. Garlett’s passing is a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of homelessness and invest in long-term solutions. Her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she inspired and the lives she touched, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience in the ongoing struggle for social justice and equality.
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Tony Clemenger
Chief Executive Officer
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