Wagga Wagga City Council is facing criticism over its response to the city’s growing homelessness crisis, with advocates warning that strict enforcement actions against people sleeping rough may worsen the situation rather than solve the underlying housing shortage.

The debate has focused on people living in camps around areas including Wilks Park and nearby river locations, where a number of homeless residents have been staying due to a lack of affordable and emergency accommodation options.

The council’s actions, including compliance notices, eviction measures and possible fines for people remaining in designated areas, have drawn criticism from homelessness organisations and legal advocates. They argue that moving people on without secure alternatives risks pushing vulnerable residents into even more unstable situations.

Legal advocate Kira Levin from the Homeless Persons Legal Service criticised what she described as a punitive approach, saying enforcement actions could further marginalise people experiencing homelessness. Advocates have argued that long-term housing support, health services and community assistance are needed rather than measures that simply relocate people.

The issue has gained significant attention following a tragic incident involving the death of a newborn baby at a homeless encampment near Wagga Wagga. The event prompted calls from community leaders and governments for urgent action to address the city’s housing crisis.

The NSW Government previously established an emergency response group involving Homes NSW, homelessness service providers, NSW Police and Wagga Wagga City Council to work on solutions for people sleeping rough in the city.

Some residents living in the camps have said they fear being forced to leave without having anywhere suitable to go. They have raised concerns about the availability of affordable housing, especially during winter when weather conditions make outdoor living particularly difficult.

Community organisations supporting homeless residents say camps have also provided informal support networks where people look after each other, share resources and assist vulnerable individuals. They argue that removing these networks without replacing them with safe accommodation could increase risks for people already experiencing hardship.

Authorities have stated that efforts are being made to connect affected residents with accommodation pathways and support services. The NSW Government has also announced additional social housing measures, including new prefabricated homes, while acknowledging that more long-term solutions are required.

The situation highlights a broader challenge facing many regional Australian communities, where rising living costs, limited rental availability and increased demand for social housing have contributed to growing homelessness pressures.

As discussions continue, advocates are calling for a balanced approach that protects public spaces while ensuring people experiencing homelessness are treated with dignity and provided with realistic pathways into stable housing.