Concerns regarding the treatment of homeless individuals in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) have intensified following the announcement of a new security program. The City of Melbourne has allocated $2 million in its 2025-26 budget to hire 10 security guards, a move that many, including members of the Homeless Persons Union of Victoria, argue unfairly targets vulnerable populations.
Kathleen Terrick, a member of the Union and an Indigenous woman who has previously experienced homelessness, voiced her concerns about the security initiative. “Being homeless is not a crime,” she stated emphatically. Terrick called for increased funding for outreach support and homeless shelters, rather than what she considers ineffective security measures.
The program, which is set to replace the temporary contractor Crownland Security next month, is designed to accompany local laws officers in enforcing compliance orders aimed at addressing issues such as aggressive begging, street drinking, and drug use. The council’s trial phase, initiated in March 2024, reportedly led to a perceived reduction in these problems, according to Lord Mayor Nick Reece. He argued that the presence of security guards fosters a safer environment for both council workers and the public.
Security Measures Under Scrutiny
Critics argue that the introduction of security guards is a misguided approach to addressing homelessness. The Homeless Persons Union has launched a petition calling on the City of Melbourne to abandon the planned program. They assert that the initiative criminalizes poverty and fails to address the root causes of homelessness.
Terrick articulated her disappointment with what she views as a punitive response to homelessness. She expressed a desire for the city to invest in proven support services, emphasizing the need for a compassionate approach rather than one that reinforces social stigmas.
“The money could go towards services that genuinely help people,” Terrick suggested, advocating for initiatives that offer real solutions rather than merely shuffling the issue out of the public eye.
In contrast, Reece defended the security program, stating that it provides a necessary deterrent in what can be volatile situations. “During the trial, our officers reported feeling safer when dealing with potentially violent situations,” he noted. He maintained that the presence of security guards has led to a decrease in incidents of street drinking and begging, contributing to a more orderly environment in the CBD.
The Broader Impact of Homelessness
The debate surrounding the security program reflects broader issues related to homelessness in urban areas. Many advocates argue that homelessness is a systemic problem that requires comprehensive solutions, including affordable housing, mental health services, and addiction treatment.
As cities like Melbourne grapple with these challenges, the voices of those directly affected, like Terrick, are crucial in shaping policy discussions. The city’s approach to homelessness continues to evolve, and it remains to be seen how community feedback will influence future initiatives.
As the launch of the security guard program approaches, discussions about the balance between public safety and humane treatment for homeless individuals will likely continue to intensify. The outcome could set a precedent for how cities address homelessness in the future, highlighting the need for thoughtful and compassionate solutions that prioritize the dignity of all citizens.
