‘Working homeless’ targeted by new sign erected at beach carpark

Aussies have raised concerns following the installation of a new parking sign at a popular beachside carpark.

There is deep concern for the ‘working homeless’ following the installation of a new sign banning a popular practice.

A “heartless” sign banning people from camping or sleeping overnight at a popular beachside carpark has sparked furious backlash from locals concerned about Sydney’s housing crisis.

It’s understood the sign was erected recently at Mona Vale Beach Carpark on Sydney’s northern beaches.

The carpark, according to locals, had been used for decades not only by travellers passing through, but also people who’ve had a few drinks and couldn’t safely drive home.

“I myself have slept some nights after having a few beers after surfing and it’s a lovely vibe,” a local posted to social media.

“In a period of incredible rental unaffordability and people struggling, I feel it’s ridiculous to be closing this as an option to people in need

“Why have we changed what has been working since I was a kid?”

He suggested beach car parks should remain open for the use of “respectful travellers” and to those with insecure accommodation.

Northern Beaches locals fear ‘working homeless’ people have been targeted by this sign. Picture: Facebook

His call received dozens of responses from members of the community who shared his sentiment, with one describing Mona Vale as being “central for the working homeless”.

“Low income minimum wage earners who clean your house, mow your lawn, mind your kids, etc, and can’t afford rent or pay a mortgage,” they wrote in a comment.

“They mind their own business, buzz in for a shower and a sleep and leave. These people are not the problem.”

They went on to accuse the local council of terrorising “hard working people who pay tax and are just trying to get a good night’s sleep”.

Many others agreed the carpark had historically provided a temporary safe haven for people who typically behaved well and caused minimal disturbance.

“As long as these spots don’t turn into havens for squatters or cesspools of crime or litter, there shouldn’t be any reason at all [to ban staying overnight],” one wrote.

Others questioned the real purpose for the rule and wondered if it was truly justified.

“I’m wondering if there is reason for it? If not, by all means let people camp out by the beach. There is far too much homelessness and other disadvantage in our world,” one response read.

Another argued it was wrong to ban people from sleeping in their car, whether it was a personal choice or an outcome of their circumstances.

“If people want to sleep in their cars, whether they’re travelling our country or can no longer afford rent, then bloody well let them,” they said.

“As long as they’re not littering the place, damaging property or making excessive noise outside the hours anyone else is allowed, who cares?”

Many others agreed there was likely far “more people needing to live in cars now as property prices are absolutely unaffordable”.

Mona Vale Beach. Picture: Chris Pavlich for The Daily Telegraph

The sign was described as “heartless”, with many in agreeance it was encroaching on Australia’s beach-loving culture.

“Living and loving the beach life respectfully is part of the culture here in Australia that’s why we live here,” one said.

Signs like the ones installed by the Northern Beaches Council were “extremely unAustralian”, affordable housing expert Ahmed Mahil said.

“We’re a very affluent country and we’re generous people in general, and when you see these kinds of things, it projects poorly on Australia,” Mr Mahil, who founded 3D printing construction company Luyten, told news.com.au.

“It’s an issue for a lot of people who often are working full time but due to the supply issue, they have to sleep in their car ... these signs are not a solution, they target people who are already down on their luck,” he said.

“It’s unAustralian and it pisses people off.”

Mr Mahil encouraged councils to look at “the bigger picture” concerning housing and work to address why people had no choice but to sleep in carparks.

Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins said council officers would take a “compassionate approach” to people found using the car park overnight.

“We understand some people choose to live in vehicles and others have been forced to due to personal circumstances and financial hardship,” she told news.com.au.

“Homelessness is a complex issue, and we take a balanced and compassionate approach to work with relevant agencies to support the individuals affected.

“Sleeping in a legally parked vehicle is not illegal; however, those who are found to be in breach of any parking conditions are informed of this and are given the opportunity to move on.”

[e-mail]

Originally published as ‘Working homeless’ targeted by new sign erected at beach carpark