Wagga Wagga Council issues eviction deadline for Wilks Park homeless

Wagga Wagga City Council has issued regulatory notices to homeless residents camping at Wilks Park, ordering them to vacate the site by August 25 or accept accommodation offers from Homes NSW. The notices, distributed by council staff accompanied by police, clarify that there is no suspension of evictions at the park.

Council General Manager Peter Thompson defended the action, stating that the notices were necessary to correct misleading information regarding the council’s intent to exercise regulatory powers. The council noted that while they have the power to issue fines for non-compliance, they have chosen not to take enforcement action against individuals actively engaging with support services. The council maintains that assistance remains available to those on site.

Community advocates and housing supporters have criticized the move, describing it as an act of “fear and intimidation” against vulnerable residents. Chris Roche, president of the Wagga Homeless Advocacy Group, argued that the deadline increases stress and may force individuals into more dangerous camping locations. Advocates expressed concern that the council’s approach contradicts previous understandings of a more compassionate, delayed enforcement period intended to allow Homes NSW time to provide housing.