Shoalhaven Homelessness Hub manager, Kerri Snowden, said social housing stocks in the Shoalhaven needed to increase, as long, unpredictable wait times cause anguish for people without a stable home.
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"It takes away hope from people, and depression starts to happen," she said.
"It has a severe impact on their mental health. If you're living in a tent, what do you think that does to you?
"This airy-fairy five-to-ten years - it's never five years. Sometimes it's quicker, sometimes it's slower."
The only type of social housing in the region with a wait of less than five years are two-bedroom properties in Berry, which have a wait time of two-to-five years.
Priority applicants who have been interviewed by a FACS worker and found to be in need of urgent housing and unable to rent privately may receive housing faster than estimated wait times.
Ms Snowden said this came with its own set of problems.
"People on priority push people on the normal wait list back further and further," she said.
"I'm not saying the people on priority shouldn't be on priority, but because there's limited stock, that's what happens. The amount of stock is far from adequate, for singles and families. One to two years would be a realistic [wait]."
Ms Snowden said the private rental market was also tight. She said units which rented for about $160 per week five years ago were now renting for $240, despite no increase to Newstart in that time.
She said the Homelessness Hub was feeling the pressure.
"We never thought we'd see up to 47 people in a day, and we hit that about a month ago," she said.
"Our average day is about 30 people. They come in here for a service. It might be a shower or to do their laundry, look for something on the computer or talk to a worker about a specific issue, but it's not just to have a chat."
She said something had to change - and soon.
"I'm quite disgusted at the way the whole system is failing," she said.
"Every Australian is entitled to a bed, food and health. It's not good enough in this country."
She encouraged anyone having difficulties with housing is encouraged get in touch with services as early as possible.
"Please, don't avoid it because you're ashamed or embarassed," she said.
"There are agencies that can help."
