The City of Moreton Bay’s recent decision to penalise and criminalise homelessness and vulnerable people for owning pets is a devastating blow to some of our most marginalised community members. ‘This heavy-handed approach highlights a stunning lack of compassion and foresight from Mayor Peter Flannery and the council,’ said Debbie Kilroy.
‘The new policies, which include fines of up to $8,065 for homeless people sleeping in vans or keeping pets, are absolutely tone deaf in the face of a national cost-of-living crisis,’ said Debbie Kilroy. ‘Instead of offering support, the council has chosen to punish people who are already struggling to survive. Where does the mayor expect these people to go? Where are the alternative solutions to keep people safe and supported within their community?’ asked Debbie Kilroy.
‘This approach not only exacerbates the trauma of homelessness but risks criminalising people who have no other options. Fining people without the means to pay will only lead to further entrenchment in poverty and potential criminalisation, creating a vicious cycle that benefits absolutely no one,’ said Debbie Kilroy.
‘Homelessness is not a crime—it is a reflection of a system that privileges some people over others. The decision to ban homeless people from having their pets in public is especially cruel, robbing people of one of the few sources of companionship and safety in their lives,’ said Tabitha Lean.
‘The council’s claims of compassion fall flat when weighed against their actions. Instead of meaningful leadership, we are seeing the punishment and exile of homeless people from the city,’ said Tabitha Lean. ‘The mayor’s suggestion that people move to already overcrowded caravan parks or remote national parks demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the realities of homelessness and the vital need for proximity to services, support networks, and basic amenities,’ said Tabitha Lean.
‘If the privileged can have dogs for companionship and support, so can people who are homeless. Pets love their owners whether they are rich or poor, houseless or housed. It makes no difference to them. This decision by council is just plain cruel,’ said Debbie Kilroy. ‘Moreton Bay deserves leadership that unites the community and provides inclusive solutions—not policies that divide and marginalise,’ said Debbie Kilroy.
The National Network urge the council to:
- Work collaboratively with state agencies to develop community-based solutions that address the root causes of homelessness.
- Lobby for increased access to affordable public housing and emergency accommodations.
- Provide support for homeless people with pets, recognising the vital role these animals play in their mental health and safety.
- Engage directly with the homeless community to ensure policies are informed by their direct experience and needs.
‘This community belongs to everyone, not just those fortunate enough to have secure housing. Leadership means creating solutions that prioritise the dignity, safety, and inclusion of all community members. It’s time for Mayor Flannery to step up and lead with compassion, not cruelty,’ said Debbie Kilroy.
For further comment, please contact Tabitha Lean on 0499 780 226 or Debbie Kilroy on 0419 762 474
