DR JOE ADDRESSES PARLIAMENT ON HOMELESSNESS

The Independent Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, has told the NSW Parliament that a major increase in outreach services is needed immediately to help people living in camps in Wagga. 

It follows the tragic death of a baby born in a tent near Wagga Beach. 

In a private member’s statement last night, Dr McGirr said more homes are needed but, in the meantime, a whole-of-government approach is needed to connect campers with support. 

The statement is available here.

Dr McGirr said: 

“This tragedy has rocked the community, and my thoughts are with the baby’s family and all those affected by this sad event. 

“Yesterday, I raised this matter in a meeting with Premier Chris Minns, who agreed that urgent action is needed to support the homeless, and I look forward to working with him to develop short and long-term solutions to this alarming problem. 

“This afternoon, I will meet with Housing Minister Rose Jackson to discuss the steps that must be taken immediately to help rough sleepers as well as the need to provide more housing in the longer term. 

“A tragedy such as this should never have happened and it’s essential that we do everything we can to reduce the risk of further harm within the homeless community. 

“It will take a whole-of-government approach, with support for charities and other non-government service providers, to make a real difference to this worsening problem and it is essential that everyone works together in a creative and supportive way to identify the challenges and opportunities needed to help people into secure homes with safety and dignity.”