Wagga Wagga City Council has voted to temporarily pause planned enforcement action against people living in homeless camps after community concerns prompted an amended motion from Councillor Richard Foley. The decision delays previously proposed eviction measures while the council seeks further information about the NSW Government's response to the city's growing homelessness crisis.

The council had earlier planned to enforce a 72-hour camping limit at locations including Wilks Park and Oura Beach. Long-term campers had been issued notices requiring them to remove their belongings and leave the sites, with the possibility of fines exceeding A$1,100 for failing to comply. However, following extensive public discussion and advocacy from community groups, councillors unanimously supported an amended motion that effectively puts the enforcement action on hold.

As part of the revised motion, Councillor Richard Foley requested a detailed report to be presented to council in September outlining what actions the NSW Government is taking to address homelessness in Wagga Wagga. Councillors said better information and stronger coordination between government agencies are needed before any further decisions are made regarding people sleeping rough.

During the council meeting, community advocates, volunteers and residents raised concerns about the impact that immediate evictions could have on vulnerable people who have few housing alternatives. They argued that moving people from camps without providing stable accommodation would simply relocate the problem rather than resolve it. Speakers also called for greater transparency about available support services and long-term housing solutions.

Council's General Manager Peter Thompson told the meeting that no fines had been issued to people sleeping rough and that outreach teams had visited individuals staying at the camps. He said state government agencies had offered emergency accommodation and support services where appropriate. However, advocates maintained that many temporary accommodation options remain unsuitable because of limited availability, strict conditions or their distance from essential services.

Several councillors acknowledged that communication with both elected representatives and the public had been limited throughout the response. They expressed support for obtaining clearer information about the coordinated efforts of government agencies and identifying more sustainable housing options for people experiencing homelessness.

Community organisations welcomed the temporary reprieve but stressed that the underlying housing shortage remains unresolved. They called for additional investment in affordable housing, transitional accommodation and support services that can help people move into secure, long-term homes rather than relying on temporary emergency arrangements.

The council's latest decision means enforcement action against the homeless camps will not proceed immediately while further discussions take place. The requested report is expected to provide councillors with updated information on housing initiatives, government assistance and future strategies for addressing homelessness across the Wagga Wagga region. Local leaders say the goal is to find solutions that balance community safety with compassion and practical support for vulnerable residents.