Albury City Council has welcomed constructive discussions following Friday’s multi-agency meeting on homelessness and rough sleeping in the local government area.
The meeting, convened by Albury Mayor, Kevin Mack, brought together Deputy Mayor, Jessica Kellahan together with representatives from NSW Police, Homes NSW, Murray and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Networks, Yes Unlimited, the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, and local Member for Albury, Justin Clancy.
Mayor Mack said the meeting reinforced that homelessness is a complex issue requiring a coordinated and compassionate response across multiple agencies.
“There was strong discussion around the growing challenges being experienced locally, particularly along the waterfront and foreshore areas, which are much-loved public spaces for our community,” Mayor Mack said.
“We discussed concerns around public safety and anti-social behaviour, but also acknowledged the sensitive and complex circumstances surrounding people experiencing homelessness.”
Agencies also discussed the need for stronger outreach support services, including mental health, drug and alcohol and accommodation support.
“There is a perception many of the people involved are from outside the region, however agencies advised this is largely not the case, with many people having local connections within our region,” said Mayor Mack.
“Homes NSW confirmed emergency accommodation demand remains high and that homelessness is an increasing issue across regional communities.”
The Mayor said discussions also focused on approaches being explored elsewhere in regional NSW, including Wagga Wagga, where the NSW Minister for Housing, Rose Jackson and agencies are meeting this week to discuss similar issues.
He said agencies agreed any future response in Albury would need to be coordinated, lawful and focused on connecting vulnerable people with support services where possible.
“We are working through what legislative powers exist, what agencies are responsible for particular actions and what an appropriate operational response may look like,” he said.
“The first step is engagement and support, and we are starting this process by having conversations with the homeless. Any actions taken will be made collaboratively between Homes NSW, Police, support agencies and Council.”
Mayor Mack said the immediate situation at Noreuil Park and Hovell Tree Park had eased in recent days, however agencies would continue monitoring the situation closely.
“We recognise community concerns, particularly around safety and public amenity, and we will continue to work together to respond appropriately.”
