Homelessness in Waverley

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Homelessness is a complex issue with no single solution. Council works in partnership with government and non-government organisations to support people experiencing homelessness and to manage the public domain.

Based on data collected from Street Counts held each year in February, homelessness remains stable in Waverley, with a slight reduction in 2024. Read the 2024 NSW Street Count report.

Compared to other LGAs in Sydney, including the City of Sydney, the number of homeless people living in public places in Waverley is small.

Waverley’s Homelessness in Public Places Protocol guides Council officers in providing support to people experiencing homelessness and living in public places. The objectives of this Protocol are to:

  • Ensure the rights of homeless people are respected by Council and the broader community;
  • Ensure homeless people are provided with information and referred to support and accommodation services in a timely manner;
  • Improve coordination of service provision to homeless people;
  • Ensure the safety of homeless people, staff, community, residents and visitors;
  • Protect everyone’s right to enjoy public amenity; and
  • Uphold Council’s legal obligations.

Council is a member of the Eastern Suburbs Homelessness Assertive-outreach Collaboration (ESHAC) that coordinates outreach and specialist services for people experiencing homelessness. Regular outreach services are provided to people experiencing homelessness in Waverley.

What can I do I do if I am concerned about a homeless person?

Most people experiencing homelessness in the public domain are known to specialist homelessness services. If you see someone and they are unwell or are exhibiting behaviour that is a risk to themselves or others, please contact Emergency Services.

If a person asks for or appears to need non-urgent help, please contact Mission Beat on 1800 306 461 or Council on 9083 8000 (a referral will be made to outreach services). For public space management issues, please contact Council.

How can I help?

You can help by donating to local organisations that assist people to get the help they need. Wayside Chapel and Jewish House are two local organisations that support people experiencing homelessness.

While well-intentioned, rough sleepers often don't need or want items from the public. Homeless people tell us they often feel obliged to accept bedding or clothing they can't store or use, which becomes a burden and often ends up discarded on the street. Please avoid giving unwanted items.

For a list of organisations that accept unwanted items see our Disposing of tricky household waste page.

To find out more, email annabelle.hayter@waverley.nsw.gov.au or call 9083 8928.