Kempsey Shire Council recently convened a roundtable to address social issues in Kempsey, including homelessness.
Attended by NSW Government agencies, local services, and police, the discussion focused on the key barriers to addressing these issues, including inadequate funding and a lack of affordable housing and accommodation options.
Andrew Meddle, CEO of Kempsey Shire Council, acknowledged the importance of strong partnerships in addressing these challenges.
"Ultimately, we want to support the local lead agencies, the NSW Government agencies, to bring their resources and authority to help resolve this issue in a way that respects the dignity of every individual."
"We also encourage the community to remain understanding and sympathetic to the very real and varied reasons people experience homelessness."
"Council remains committed to collaborating with NSW Government partners to implement solutions that are both strategic, locally appropriate and compassionate."
As part of this collaborative response, Council and partner agencies have taken steps to address illegal camping at Forth Street in Kempsey, requesting several individuals relocate, and various services have engaged with remaining occupants to identify alternative accommodation options.
Fencing will soon be installed on the land to prevent further unauthorised access, with timing to be confirmed once logistical arrangements are finalised.
Staff continue to work respectfully with people staying in public spaces. Council does not have the legal authority to forcibly remove people from public land.
Council will continue working with NSW Government agencies, service providers, and police to ensure responses uphold dignity, foster engagement, and connect people with the support they need, with further updates to be provided as this work progresses.
