Reprieve for homeless group

Above: File picture

“Rough sleepers” at a site in Kallangur have been given a reprieve by Moreton Bay City Council (MBCC).

They have been allowed to stay at Goodfellows Road until injunctions are brought back to the Supreme Court on July 24.

The decision only relates to those involved in these court proceedings.

Council CEO Scott Waters says it is a “temporary” reprieve and the injunction “was not granted”.

However, Nourish Street, which supported the legal action, is claiming on its Facebook page “this is a huge win for our most vulnerable”.

“We have been saying from the start we believe MBCC is acting illegally by attempting to bulldoze people's homes who have nowhere to go.”

Mr Waters says today’s injunction relates to the Bobeldyks, who last week accepted an offer of housing and are in the process of moving to a new home.

Waste of time

“It is simply a waste of the court’s time and ratepayer resources to bring these matters before the court when the ultimate goal for our rough sleepers has been achieved - with the Bobeldyks gaining access to community housing,” Mr Waters said.

“Overnight, in addition to the Bobeldyk application, another 11 people filed an application in the same form as the Bobeldyks, for an injunction to prevent Council taking compliance action, until July 24.

“Again, this does nothing more than divert resources away from the ultimate goal of achieving housing outcomes for the individuals.”

In an agreement with Moreton Bay City Council, the 11 must not impede reasonable access by other community members and Council officers undertaking duties, not conduct illegal behaviour and keep the area clean, safe and tidy.

Mr Waters said: “Daily patrols of the site will ensure compliance against public health and community safety standards are met.

“In addition to the patrols, the rough sleepers have provided assurance to the Council that the public health and safety of all residents will be upheld.

Work together

“Council notes that today’s decision means that some public areas owned by Council may not be accessible and asks for patience as we work together with stakeholders including the State Government to support those sleeping rough.”

Legal action is also being taken against Council over its repeal of the People Experiencing Homelessness Framework, issuing of compliance notices and impounding unwanted possessions.

“The City of Moreton Bay will continue to uphold the community expectations of public health and community safety at all of its facilities,” Mr Waters said.

“Council’s willingness to work through an approach of protecting its community while seeking appropriate accommodation for rough sleepers should be noted by Basic Rights Queensland, Northwest Community Group and Nourish Street.

“These groups, first and foremost basis must be working to achieve safe and secure accommodation for our most vulnerable, rather than facilitate continued rough sleeping in public areas.

“The Council will be maintaining its current position to ensure public health and community safety at the upcoming hearings.”