Vinnies Boss Condemns Port Phillip Council Law Allowing Seizure of Homeless Belongings

The City of Port Phillip Council in Melbourne has approved a controversial local law allowing officers to confiscate and store belongings from homeless encampments, sparking strong condemnation from charity leaders. Charlie Spendlove, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria, labeled the decision "abhorrent" and "baffling," arguing it penalizes vulnerable individuals without addressing the root causes of homelessness. While the council asserts the measure is a last resort targeting camps causing safety or amenity issues, with no fines issued and free retrieval of items, critics view it as an attempt to hide the problem rather than solve it. Mayor Alex Makin stated that officers will receive trauma-informed training before the law takes effect on June 1. Despite a survey showing 76.1% of residents opposed the amendment, it passed with a 5-3 vote among councillors. The debate highlights growing tensions between municipal management of public spaces and the rights of rough sleepers, with advocates urging for better access to crisis accommodation instead of punitive measures.