‘Complex issue’: MP, Mayor outline next steps to tackle homelessness in Nambour
Homeless encampments in public spaces in Nambour remains a pressing concern, with continuing frustration in the community over the impacts on public spaces and safety, and confusion about what is being done – and by whom – to address the problem.
At the heart of the issue is a lack of understanding around responsibilities, with Sunshine Coast Council and the State Government each pointing to the other to take action. Meanwhile, residents, business owners and advocacy groups continue to call for urgent solutions to support vulnerable people while restoring public areas to safe, usable spaces.
Following last week’s Nambour Homelessness Response Forum, the Gazette put questions to local State MP for Nicklin, Marty Hunt & Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli. Their responses shed light on the steps being taken, the challenges ahead, and the need for cooperation between all levels of government.
Q&A with Nicklin MP Marty Hunt
Q: Was there any progress at the Nambour Homelessness Response Forum on Tuesday afternoon (September 9)?
“Yes, we are making good progress working together and are confident that we are making inroads.”
Q: In the short term, is there any hope of finding practical solutions, such as temporary “bed down” shelters, so that people currently sleeping rough have a safe place to go, and the community can see public spaces like parks returned to normal use?
“Yes, several options are being considered at present and we believe we are close to some short term solutions.”
Q: Council says homelessness is a state issue. The state says council needs to play its part. Can you make the case for why council should act and what they should do now?
“To be clear, the State funds housing and homelessness services and we are sending outreach teams around to attempt to provide assistance to as many people as possible. Ultimately, responsibility for managing parks, including decisions around enforcing local camping laws, rests with council.”
Q: We’ve heard conflicting information about whether people are refusing offers of accommodation. The Department of Housing has said that help is being offered but declined. Homelessness advocates, such as Paul Slater and Abigail, say that’s not the case, and that most people desperately want safe housing. How do we cut through the confusion and get a clear understanding of what’s really happening?
“Both of these scenarios can be correct. Homelessness is a complex issue with a wide variety of individual circumstances. We are actively trying to find solutions for everyone.”
Q: Locals are concerned that homeless people with complex drug, alcohol, mental health and criminal backgrounds are living in close proximity to parks and schools. Do you share those concerns?
“Of course I share those concerns and community safety is my top priority, that is why I am continuing to work with council and other stakeholders to try and solve this complex issue together. This is an issue affecting communities right across Queensland and Australia.”
Q&A with Mayor Rosanna Natoli
Q: Was there any progress at the Nambour Homelessness Response Forum on Tuesday afternoon (September 9)?
“Representatives from a variety of State Government agencies, Sunshine Coast Council and community support organisations reaffirmed their commitment to address homelessness in Nambour with compassion and urgency at the forum on Tuesday. Discussions focused on identifying safe alternative locations, improving service coordination and ensuring community safety.”
Q: In the short term, is there any hope of finding practical solutions, such as temporary “bed down” shelters, so that people currently sleeping rough have a safe place to go, and the community can see public spaces like parks returned to normal use?
“The Forum representatives are collaborating to explore all viable options, including temporary safe spaces with access to wrap-around support services.”
Q: Council says homelessness is a state issue. The state says council needs to play its part. Can you make the case for why the State should act and what they should do now to solve this issue?
“Homelessness is a deeply complex issue that requires all levels of government to work together, and this is being demonstrated through Nambour Homelessness Response Forum. While councils play an important role in supporting local responses and community partnerships, the State Government has the lead responsibility for housing and homelessness services under national agreements. Council is committed to being part of the solution, and we’ll continue to work closely with the State to ensure our local insights and partnerships contribute to a compassionate and effective response.”
Q: We’ve heard conflicting information about whether people are refusing offers of accommodation. The Department of Housing has said that help is being offered but declined. Homelessness advocates, such as Paul Slater and Abigail, say that’s not the case, and that most people desperately want safe housing. How do we cut through the confusion and get a clear understanding of what’s really happening?
“We’re listening to both service providers and people with lived experience. Most people want safe, stable housing, but their needs can be complex, and not all options offered are suitable. To better understand what’s happening, we need a coordinated and transparent approach that brings together government, services and community voices. This will help ensure support is not only available, but also appropriate and trusted.”
Q: Locals are concerned that homeless people with complex drug, alcohol, mental health and criminal backgrounds are living in close proximity to parks and schools. Do you share those concerns?
“Council shares the community’s desire for safe, welcoming public spaces. That’s why we are working with partners to find alternatives that support vulnerable individuals while maintaining safety for all. There is no single fix, but we are committed to progressing a range of compassionate, practical responses that serve both vulnerable individuals and the broader community.”
Nicklin MP, Marty Hunt.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor, Rosanna Natoli.