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SHS Learning Program

Quality learning, training, and practice resources

The SHS Learning Program is designed to educate and inspire practitioners in Victoria’s Specialist Homelessness Sector through the provision of quality learning, training, and practice resources.

There are two primary modes of learning within the SHS Learning Program: live training sessions and self-directed eLearning.

Browse this page to discover current opportunities within the SHS Learning Program. Alternatively, head straight to the SHS Learning Hub to register for sessions.


Live training sessions

Live training sessions are delivered by experts from the SHS and allied services, and enable learners to take part in interactive education alongside their peers. Both online and in person sessions are currently being delivered.

To register for a session, visit the SHS Learning Hub and search for the session you would like to book.

Upcoming sessions

Live training  / 

Mental health first aid (two full days)

This session outlines how to provide initial support to someone experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis using a practical, evidence-based action plan. Taking place 7 & 8 April.

Date: 07.04.2022

Live training  / 

Mediation for managers

This session presented by Scott Dutton explores the benefits of managers and team leaders using mediation within their agencies. This interactive and stimulating one day training workshop will assist leaders in the not-for-profit sector to understand and impart the essential principles and process of mediation.

Date: 03.05.2022

Live training  / 

SHS team leadership

This course is for experienced team leaders or equivalent (e.g., advanced practitioners) in the specialist homelessness sector. There are two live training sessions to attend as part of this course: a virtual half-day session (7 June) and a full day face to face session (6 July). It is designed to be completed alongside the SHS team leadership eLearning module in the SHS Learning Hub.

Date: 07.06.2022

Live training  / 

Introduction to specialist homelessness sector practice

This session is designed to provide new workers to the specialist homelessness sector with foundational information about working with people who do not have a home. The session also addresses the capabilities and knowledge required to work effectively with the sector, as outlined within the pre-requisite eLearning module.

Date: 16.06.2022

Self-directed eLearning

Self-directed eLearning courses contain one or more modules, which include a mix of required reading, guided activities, multimedia resources, links to additional resources, and further reading.

To access eLearning, visit the SHS Learning Hub and search for the eLearning you would like to book.

Featured modules

eLearning  / 

An overview of specialist homelessness services

To support consumers to navigate the complexity of the specialist homelessness sector (SHS), practitioners must understand how the system works, to assist people to find and maintain housing. In this eLearning module, learners can explore the history of the SHS in Victoria, roles the workforce is funded to provide, policy frameworks, and key reforms that inform the future direction of the SHS.

Date: 28.03.2023

eLearning  / 

SHS team leadership

This course is aimed at experienced team leaders or equivalent (e.g., advanced practitioner) in the specialist homelessness sector. It is recommended that learners have at least six months in the role. It is designed to be completed alongside the SHS team leadership live training sessions, being held on 7 June and 6 July.

Date: 28.03.2023

eLearning  / 

An overview of social housing

It’s a term used frequently in our sector, but what is social housing exactly? This foundational eLearning module provides an understanding of the history and current social housing environment in Victoria, while exploring the role of government and not-for-profit providers, and the rights of tenants and the supports available to them.

Date: 28.03.2023

eLearning  / 

Victorian Housing Register

Consumers accessing social housing do so through the Victorian Housing Register (VHR). Practitioners in the specialist homelessness sector can complete applications for consumers they are working with for priority access to social housing. To complete effective applications, practitioners should have a good understanding of the VHR and the social housing system in Victoria.

Date: 28.03.2023


Practice resources

To complement and enhance the knowledge gained through the SHS Learning Program, learners are encouraged to access the suite of useful practice resources created by Council to Homeless Persons.

SHS Learning Hub

Find information on activities, session times, and costs, and access eLearning modules and your personalised dashboard with the SHS Learning Hub.

Registration is quick, simple, and only required once.


Learn more about the SHS Learning Program

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