In Liberty’s view the City of Melbourne’s proposed Activities (Public Amenity and Security) Local Law 2017 (“Amending Laws”) are draconian in their nature and target some of the most vulnerable persons in our community.
Liberty Victoria has had the opportunity to read and consider the submissions of the Infringements Work Group (“IWG”). We fully endorse those submissions which are consistent with the preservation of the human rights and civil liberties of persons in our community who suffer the misfortune of homelessness. (A link to this submission will be posted shortly.)
Liberty Victoria is of the view that there are already in place laws that sufficiently address the concerns expressed by the City of Melbourne and that the proposed Amending Laws will impact significantly on the human rights and civil liberties of some of the most vulnerable members of our community. In our opinion, rather than introduce the Amending Laws (that will effectively serve to punish the homeless), the City of Melbourne must look at more humane ways of dealing with the problem of homelessness, such as the provision of additional resources to better fund temporary housing and counselling services.
You can read more about these issues on the Justice Connect Homeless Law Page