Different countries use different language to describe extended periods of homelessness. You might hear people refer to chronic, persistent, or long-term homelessness.  

In Australia, the Government uses the term “persistent homelessness” to describe people who have longer or multiple experiences of homelessness. People experiencing “persistent homelessness” are those who have been “homeless for more than 7 months in the preceding 24-month period.” 

Community organisations and service providers often use the term "chronic homelessness” to refer to people who have experienced persistent homelessness and also have a physical or mental complexity.