Decision

The City of Port Phillip council voted to allow staff to confiscate personal possessions, including bedding, from rough sleepers in response to complaints about anti-social behavior in St Kilda.

"The policy is intended to create a safer environment, not to target homeless individuals." — Mayor Alex Makin

Context

The change in local law passed with five councillors in favor and three against. The council argued it aims to address behaviors that pose risks to individuals or the community. Possessions will be stored at council service centers or with service providers for collection at no charge.

Statements

Councillor Libby Buckingham opposed the change, stating it would increase conflict and entrench poverty.

Ruth Gordon, coordinator at Southern Homelessness Services Network, said the confiscation is unlikely to help and may worsen conditions for homeless individuals.

Rory La Roche, a street outreach worker at Vixen, expressed concerns about human rights impacts, particularly in winter.

Federal Labor MP Josh Burns criticized the decision as counterproductive and failing to address homelessness.

"This move will not solve homelessness. It will only make life harder for those already struggling." — MP Josh Burns

Background

Approximately 25 people sleep rough nightly in Port Phillip. Crime rates in the area are higher than the Victorian average. A survey of 708 respondents found 76.1% opposed the proposed law change. The council previously considered fining rough sleepers but abandoned that plan over human rights concerns.

Related Actions

Other councils in Melbourne have also taken measures: the City of Melbourne uses private security to move homeless people, while Maribyrnong City Council ended its private security patrols after community pushback.