If you’re concerned about the welfare of someone who is sleeping rough in the Byron Shire, let Council know via a new online welfare form on Council’s website or call 6626 7000.

This is the message from Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, who says this initiative will help get location-specific information from the community directly to experienced Council staff. 

“Our Public Space Liaison Officers are dedicated, experienced staff who work closely every day with people experiencing homelessness in our community,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

“Information from concerned community members helps our team find people in need, make sure they’re okay, and where appropriate link them to local support services.”

In an emergency, community members should contact 000.  

Mayor Ndiaye said the welfare form was part of the ongoing work of the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire, which now has over 30 members, including Council.

“We know that the only way to remove barriers and solve homelessness is to work together with compassion alongside the homelessness sector, the government and our community,” she said.

“This was at the heart of the 1000 Voices Byron Shire project we ran last year. We look forward to sharing findings with the community in the coming months,” the Mayor said. 

Council and the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration are also working with government agencies on their annual NSW Street Count, which will take place in the Byron Shire on Friday 27 February.

The NSW Street Count provides a point-in-time snapshot of how many people are sleeping rough and where. It helps government, service providers and local groups work together and better target housing, outreach and support services.

“We’ve been working with Homes NSW to make improvements to the Street Count so the data collected is more accurate and better reflects what’s happening,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

“We know the Byron Shire is in desperate need of more temporary accommodation and social housing to provide real pathways out of homelessness. 

“It’s unacceptable that so many people are stuck in an impossible situation, and increasing housing options is essential to creating long‑term change.”

More information about homelessness services and programs is on Council’s website.