More Vic women flee violent homes: report

Domestic violence is to blame for an increase in homelessness in Victoria, a new report shows.

An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report has revealed homelessness has risen by eight per cent in Victoria in the 2013-14 financial year.

Council of Homeless Persons CEO Jenny Smith said they helped almost 5000 women and their children in the last year.

She said the report showed the need for continued federal investment.

"Women and children fleeing domestic violence, young people who can't stay with their families and long-term rough sleepers looking for a bed for the night are all affected by the lack of certainty that this funding cycle creates," she said.

"Better awareness and increased reporting of family violence is a good thing, but needs to be matched with the resources to respond."

The report also showed 4500 sought help for housing or financial crises while 7000 people in the private rental market are also at risk of homelessness.

"These trends show a vast number of people under strain due to high housing costs," Ms Smith said.