The council’s actions come on the heels of new legislation passed last month that prohibits homeless individuals from owning pets
In response to escalating violence and safety concerns, the City of Moreton Bay in South-East Queensland has employed private security guards to protect its workers while servicing areas near the region’s growing homeless camps. The decision, announced on Monday, follows a surge in complaints about public amenities and waste management delays, as well as reports of life-threatening confrontations involving council staff.
The council revealed that the security detail would accompany workers tasked with cleaning and maintaining public spaces after incidents of aggression from individuals camping illegally and some People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH). These confrontations have reportedly included violence and threats to the safety of both staff and members of the public.
“To ensure the safety of our employees and the public, all Operations and Safety staff have been directed to maintain a distance of 50 metres from PEH and illegal campsites in public spaces,” the council stated. It added that the decision complies with a recent Workplace Health and Safety Queensland order and aligns with its zero-tolerance policy on aggression and violence towards employees.
DelayIn Public Services
The rise in tensions has led to disruptions in public services, including delays in cleaning public toilets and emptying overflowing rubbish bins. The council acknowledged that the situation has negatively impacted public health, safety, and overall amenity in the area. Complaints regarding PEH and illegal camping have doubled over the past year, reflecting the region’s increasing challenges in managing homelessness.
From 30 December 2024, security personnel will accompany council staff in public spaces where their presence is deemed necessary and safe, the council confirmed.
Community Reactions
The council’s decision has drawn mixed reactions. Beau Haywood, founder of the community initiative Nourish Street, questioned the necessity of hiring security guards. “It might be a way of potentially stopping any sort of safety issues that they might perceive, but you know I am yet to see anyone be abused or mistreated from anyone homeless,” he told *The Courier-Mail*.
However, Mayor Peter Flannery defended the move, citing an increase in complaints from residents about the impact of homeless camps on public areas. “We’ve received hundreds of complaints from locals,” he said, adding that the sharp rise in homelessness has led to significant declines in public health and safety.
Legislative Measures
The council’s actions come on the heels of new legislation passed last month that prohibits homeless individuals from owning pets. The measure has faced criticism from advocates who argue that such laws further marginalise vulnerable populations.
With homelessness on the rise in Moreton Bay, the council’s efforts underscore the challenges local governments face in balancing public safety and addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. While some applaud the initiative to safeguard employees, others urge greater compassion and resources to tackle the root causes of homelessness.
