It’s been revealed homeless residents in Musgrave Park were slugged hundreds of dollars to relocate during a popular festival. They’re demanding to know why they were charged so much to stay in state government-funded crisis accommodation.
Brisbane Homelessness Crisis: Residents Forced to Pay Hundreds of Dollars to Relocate During Festival
Residents of Musgrave Park in Brisbane were forced to pay hundreds of dollars to relocate during a popular festival, leaving many homeless and without a place to stay. Around 50 homeless people were pushed out of the park and into state government-funded crisis accommodation, but they were charged up to $400 for the move.
“It’s really hard,” said one resident, who asked not to be named. “We’re already struggling with homelessness and now we have to pay hundreds of dollars just for a place to stay.”
The incident has brought attention to the broader issue of homelessness in Brisbane, which has seen an 8% increase nationally since 2017 according to Professor Hal Pawson from the University of New South Wales. In 2016, 5813 people were reported as homeless in Brisbane alone.
Organizations such as Brisbane Youth Service are working tirelessly on the ground level to help those affected by homelessness. According to their website, 70% of young people experiencing homelessness are under 24 years old.
Brisbane Mayor Adrian Schrinner has called on the government for action on this issue, saying “It’s obvious that the current housing crisis is forcing more and more people, including women and children, onto Brisbane’s streets.”
The incident at Musgrave Park highlights how much work needs to be done in order for these issues not only be addressed but prevented from occurring again in the future. Solutions could include increased funding for emergency housing services or better access to affordable rental properties across the city.
No one should have to go through what these residents experienced during this festival – it’s time for real change when it comes tackling homelessness in Brisbane.
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