In a significant move, a council in Queensland, Australia, has decided to enforce a public camping ban, leading to the eviction of homeless individuals from parks. The City of Moreton Bay made this decision with the aim of addressing public health and safety concerns, as stated by the council’s CEO, Scott Waters. The new law, set to be effective from 12 March, will make it unlawful for anyone to camp on public land, thereby making homelessness effectively illegal in the region.

The decision to repeal the framework that previously addressed homelessness issues was supported by the majority of council members, signaling a shift in policy that had been in place since 2021. The move comes in response to the surge in homelessness during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the council aiming to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness receive the necessary support and services.

While the council justifies the ban as a measure to safeguard public health and well-being, critics argue that it unfairly targets vulnerable populations. The ban is expected to result in fines for homeless individuals found camping in public spaces, with compliance notices to be issued for immediate eviction. The council emphasized that the enforcement of the ban would primarily be in response to complaints from residents, allowing for a grace period for individuals to comply before facing penalties.

The decision to implement the camping ban follows previous actions by the council to prohibit sleeping in vans, further exacerbating the challenges faced by homeless residents. With Moreton Bay having one of the longest social housing waiting lists in Queensland and homelessness rates on the rise, the council’s approach has sparked debates on the adequacy of existing support systems for vulnerable populations.

Amidst concerns raised by some council members regarding the capacity of state agencies to accommodate additional homeless individuals, the overall impact of the ban on the community remains uncertain. Social sciences expert Prof Cameron Parsell highlighted the potential negative consequences of the ban, suggesting that it may disproportionately affect the less privileged while shielding affluent residents from the sight of poverty.

The move has also drawn attention to the broader issue of homelessness in Queensland, with thousands of individuals on waiting lists for public or community housing. The decision reflects a complex challenge that requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach to address the underlying causes of homelessness and provide sustainable solutions for those in need.

As the community grapples with the implications of the camping ban, it underscores the importance of a coordinated effort involving local governments, state agencies, and community organizations to support individuals experiencing homelessness and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all residents.