Police have issued five eviction notices to longer-term campers at Eurobodalla Council’s North Head campground near Moruya on the NSW far south coast.
The evictions follow a serious assault at the site on New Year’s Eve and recent anti-social and illegal behaviour requiring police involvement.
The campground has been closed to tourists temporarily as a result, and all campers are being reminded by Eurobodalla Shire Council of the need to comply with campground rules or face eviction.
Eurobodalla Mayor, Mathew Hatcher said people are being evicted due to anti-social behaviour breaches campground rules, not because they are homeless.
“I want to be really clear with the community. Those being evicted by NSW Police from North Head campground are being evicted because of their behaviour, not because they are homeless,” the Mayor said.
“We need to protect the safety of staff and other campers, and that is also why we aren’t allowing tourists to stay at the moment.”
The primitive campground, without enclosed showers or hot water, is currently home to around 50 people experiencing homelessness.
In response to the housing crisis, the Council has chosen not to enforce NSW Government regulations limiting campers to a maximum of 50 days per year at the site.
Mayor Hatcher said he is upset the situation has reached this point.
“I’ll say it again. A primitive campground is not a suitable place for people to be living long-term.”
“Despite the best efforts of the shire’s welfare agencies and the Council, people need proper housing and the support and access to services that comes with that.
“I once again call on the NSW Premier to make immediate arrangements to house the people living at North Head campground. This situation cannot go on,” he said.
The Mayor said local welfare agencies were continuing to work with the Council and NSW Police to support those living at the campground.
