Council says it shares community concerns, will continue working towards solutions

Council says it shares the community’s concerns and is committed to safer public spaces and better outcomes for people experiencing homelessness

Sunshine Coast Council has issued a response after the Gazette sought its comment on a proposed public meeting being organised to address growing safety concerns around encampments in Nambour. 

A spokesperson said: “Council shares the community’s concerns and is committed to safer public spaces and better outcomes for people experiencing homelessness. This is a complex challenge, and progress depends on partnership, with that work already underway. 

“Homelessness is primarily a State responsibility, but collaboration is best practice. That’s why Council has brought federal, state and local elected officials, Queensland Government agencies including Housing, Health and Police, Sunshine Coast Council, and sector leaders such as Integrated Family and Youth Services and QShelter together through forums and a working group focused on practical solutions for Nambour. 

“Alongside the forums, Council established the Nambour Homelessness Working Group to bring local voices into the conversation. This group includes more than 20 members, including advocates Helen Tagg and Abigail who have been invited and participated in several of these forums, along with people with lived experience and organisations such as “Nambour Community Centre, The Shack, The Everyday Foundation and St Vincent de Paul. Their insights are helping shape solutions that truly reflect Nambour’s needs. 

“The next Nambour Homelessness Response Forum on 12 December will review progress and set next steps. Council will keep working through these partnerships to ensure collaboration drives solutions that make sense for our community.”