NSW government paid for homeless man to be sent back to New Zealand instead of offering housing
Summary
The New South Wales (NSW) government paid for a homeless man to be sent back to New Zealand instead of providing him temporary housing in Australia. After public attention, the man was offered accommodation and plans to stay in Wagga Wagga, where he has family and personal ties.Key Facts
- A homeless man named Mark Hudson, living in Wagga Wagga, NSW, was pressured by Homes NSW to take a flight back to New Zealand.
- Hudson has lived in Australia for 18 years and has permanent residency but lacked online proof of it.
- The NSW government spent $1,797 on flight tickets for him to return to Auckland, but the flight was cancelled.
- Hudson has a girlfriend and is about to take custody of his granddaughter in Wagga Wagga.
- After media contact, the NSW government offered Hudson temporary accommodation.
- NSW requires permanent residency proof to access social housing, usually via Centrelink payments.
- New Zealand citizens on special category visas can get emergency housing in NSW.
- Advocates say some homeless people in encampments face fines or forced move-ons from government and council actions.
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