News
23 January, 2025
Council staff instructed to stay 50m from homeless
In response to rising safety concerns, the City of Moreton Bay Council has instructed all Operations and Safety staff to maintain a 50-metre distance from areas with People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH) and illegal camping in public spaces.
This measure comes after a significant increase in complaints over the past 12 months, including incidents of escalating violence and aggression towards Council staff and the public, including life-threatening situations.
A Council spokesperson said Council “has zero tolerance for aggression and violence towards its employees,” and the new policy aligns with a recent Workplace Health and Safety Queensland order.
As a result, some delays in regular services, such as bin and amenity servicing, may occur.
To further address safety challenges, security personnel will now accompany Council staff when servicing public spaces where safe.
Council thanks the community for their patience as it works to maintain essential services and ensure safer public spaces for all.
“Our staff work hard year-round, especially during the busy holiday season, to keep our parks, beaches, and public spaces clean and well-maintained,” the spokesperson said.