The City of Moreton Bay recently announced a significant policy change regarding homeless camping on public land, making it illegal effective from March 12. This decision marks the repeal of the council’s Persons Experiencing Homelessness Framework, which had previously permitted homeless individuals to camp on council-owned properties. City of Moreton Bay’s chief executive, Scott Waters, emphasized that this shift aims to prioritize the health and safety of people experiencing homelessness by facilitating access to essential support services.

The enforcement of this new regulation will involve council workers informing homeless individuals about the impending changes. The move comes in response to various challenges associated with homeless encampments, including issues like drug use, alcoholism, aggressive behavior towards the public, unrestrained pets, littering, and a decline in the overall quality of public spaces. After March 12, individuals deemed as “illegal campers” may receive compliance notices and potential penalties, including fines, for non-compliance.

However, this decision has sparked criticism from some quarters. Beau Haywood, a volunteer assisting the homeless population, expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact on the mental health of those affected. He criticized the decision as being harsh and lacking in compassion, suggesting that it could exacerbate rather than alleviate the homelessness issue, potentially displacing homeless individuals to other areas.

City Mayor Peter Flannery defended the council’s stance, highlighting the need for a shift in policy due to the misuse of the previous framework. He indicated that certain charitable efforts inadvertently perpetuated the problem by not effectively connecting homeless individuals with the necessary professional services. The council plans to adopt a complaint-based system, with officers responding to reports of homelessness from residents. Additionally, the council has enlisted extra officers to engage with homeless individuals, with support from the Queensland Police Service.

In conclusion, while the City of Moreton Bay’s decision to outlaw homeless camping on public land aims to address various challenges associated with homelessness, it has also raised concerns about its potential repercussions on the affected population. The debate surrounding the issue underscores the complex nature of homelessness and the importance of implementing comprehensive solutions that balance regulatory measures with compassionate support for vulnerable individuals.