The Central Coast’s idyllic coastline, renowned for its natural beauty, has become an unlikely battleground in a growing social challenge; homelessness in council carparks.
The recent decision by Central Coast Council to enforce stricter parking rules in beachside reserves and carparks, spearheaded by Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton, aims to curtail what some see as an escalating issue of illegal free camping.
However, while addressing resident concerns, the measures bring to light the complex problems of community expectations, tourism and the plight of the region’s most vulnerable.
Eaton’s motion, passed by Council with the Mayor’s casting vote, directs the urgent installation of signage prohibiting overnight parking from 10pm to 5am.
Council rangers will now be tasked with enforcing these restrictions.
The intent is clear: to prevent beachside carparks from being monopolised by long-term campers, particularly during the busy Summer holiday period when local residents and tourists alike seek access to these prime coastal spots.
Residents of Budgewoi have voiced frustration over carparks being occupied by makeshift campers for extended periods.
Reports of buses and other vehicles stationed at Lakes Beach carparks for weeks, even months, have raised concerns about hygiene and public safety.
One resident cited instances of campers using nearby bushland as toilets, adding fuel to the call for immediate action.
“Local ratepayers are not happy,” said a Budgewoi resident.
“They are taking up all the parking spaces, and I don’t think it’s fair for locals who pay rates and can’t even park by the beach.”
Yet, while residents’ frustrations are valid, a deeper issue is at play.
Some of those residing in vehicles at these carparks are not tourists on a budget – they are people experiencing genuine homelessness.
The Council’s motion, to its credit, acknowledges this distinction.
It includes provisions for Council rangers to refer homeless individuals to appropriate support services and explore temporary accommodation solutions in collaboration with the holiday park owners and other partners.
Homelessness is a multifaceted issue, often resulting from economic hardship, mental health challenges, or family breakdowns.
For those living in vehicles, beachside carparks may offer a semblance of safety and stability.
Simply moving them on without providing alternatives risks further marginalising already vulnerable members of the community.
Deputy Mayor Eaton’s assertion that enforcement is necessary to prevent carparks from being overrun by campers reflects a legitimate concern about maintaining public amenities for their intended purpose.
However, enforcement alone cannot be the solution.
The Council’s commitment to exploring temporary accommodation options and referring individuals to support services is a positive step, but it must be pursued with genuine urgency and compassion.
Homeless people using public spaces is a visible symptom of broader societal challenges that require coordinated action from local government, social services and the community.
The Central Coast can lead by example, demonstrating that while protecting public amenities is essential, so too is the responsibility to care for those in need.
As the Summer season unfolds, the sight of a full carpark may once again trigger frustration for locals and tourists vying for a spot by the beach.
Yet, behind the parked vehicles are often stories of struggle and resilience.
Addressing the issue with compassion, rather than mere compliance, will ultimately reflect the spirit of our Central Coast community.
David Abrahams – Managing Editor
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