Statement on accommodation for RELOCATING campers

The issue of homeless encampments is complex and sensitive, but the fact is that the camps are not safe for occupants and the wider community and are not a situation that society should regard as acceptable. 

I am working with Wagga City Council, Homes NSW, St Vincent de Paul, health services and other agencies on a plan led by the Housing Minister and the Premier to transfer the campers into a range of safe and appropriate housing options. 

The first step in securing housing involves a range of short-term options, delivered with full engagement with clients, and I have been assured that short term accommodation will continue to be provided until longer-term housing is secured, as long as clients remain engaged. 

Anyone who engages with Homes NSW and partner agencies will continue to be supported with accommodation as they transition into more stable housing. 

No person who engages with Homes NSW and other agencies will lose access to accommodation before an appropriate longer-term housing solution is in place. 

The focus of this plan is to ensure everyone in the camps has a safe place to live with specialised support services provided to address individual needs and ongoing assistance to deliver housing security.