First Step has been closely involved in the consultations, advice, and decision-making processes of the City of Port Phillip in recent months.

There have been numerous proposals from a current councillor aimed at taking a more punitive approach to rough sleepers. The first proposal was to fine rough sleepers, and the second to establish non-encampment zones in certain areas. Both tactics are designed to “move people on.” But move them on to where?

Homelessness and rough sleeping are real issues in St Kilda and surrounds. Nobody debates that. However, in the opinion of First Step and many other organisations and indeed residents:

1. Great work is already being done in this area by council, not-for-profits, and rough sleepers themselves, leading to many positive housing outcomes.
2. Rough sleeping is too often conflated with crime and other behaviours in a way that is not supported by evidence.
3. Punitive approaches have no conceivable benefit for anyone; the only actual solutions are housing and support.

The only 'win' here is a 'win-win': more people housed and fewer complaints to council about rough sleepers. And we think the only way to achieve that is to enhance existing positive efforts, foster closer collaboration between organisations, and ensure the council continues to support and coordinate these initiatives.

First Step has a strong relationship with the City of Port Phillip councillors and staff. We participate in consultations whenever possible, provide expert clinical advice pro bono, receive support (small grants, including facilities grants for events), and meet often. We hope to continue this work and contribute to the broader efforts across the City of Port Phillip to harness the spirit of the neighbourhood and ensure that everyone’s human rights are upheld.