Gold Coast City leaders are weighing up a proposed $1.5 million compliance program to address the region’s escalating homelessness crisis.
With current estimates revealing around 400 people are sleeping rough in public spaces across the city, council is set to debate the targeted funding package at a planning committee meeting today.
The initiative takes aim at known rough-sleeping hotspots, with a particular focus on managing the Southport CBD and The Spit.
The program will see the rollout of a dedicated team of 10 City Laws officers who will operate around the clock, working day and night to monitor public areas and enforce compliance.
It’s understood a portion of the proposed funding will be injected directly into crisis accommodation and local support services to help transition people off the streets.
It’ll also see a major boost in public space management during the Gold Coast’s marquee events.
Authorities plan to ramp up their presence around major economic events like the Gold Coast Marathon, the Pacific Airshow, Blues on Broadbeach, and the Magic Millions, ensuring popular areas remain well-managed during the city’s busiest periods.
