In Warrawong, NSW, a small group of people experiencing housing insecurity have created a peaceful, self-managed community on unused state-owned land. Overnight parking was previously permitted, giving residents a rare chance to find safety, consistency, and connection in the midst of crisis.

Now, they have been issued a 28-day notice to vacate, with "no overnight parking" signs to follow - despite no immediate plans for redevelopment of the land.

But this place is far more than a stopgap. It's a community rooted in care, resilience, and dignity.

One resident is rebuilding his life after experiencing domestic and family violence. He bought a secondhand campervan and now runs his own business to support others going through similar hardship.

A resident in his 80s used his late wife's estate to purchase a van and has quietly lived there ever since, finding peace and safety.

Another resident with ongoing health conditions shared how rotating through caravan parks or unsafe housing placements places him at risk and is unsustainable.

They grow food in a shared veggie patch and offer meals, support and safety to others who turn up with nowhere else to go. People who have been living on the streets, who have been welcomed into the community and are now working toward rebuilding their life with their support.

One resident described how he helped a young woman reconnect with family and access essential services. Another recounted an encounter with local boys who attempted to take their bikes - instead of calling police, he invited them to ask next time and let them leave with two bikes freely given.

This space, built from nothing, has provided more for the community, than those who supposedly serve us. 

This space is more than just a place to live— it's a place of purpose, connection, and healing. It's a home that not only supports those living in it, but also uplifts others in the wider community.

In the face of a growing homelessness crisis across NSW, displacing people from unused public land - without offering real, sustainable alternatives — is not only unjust, it's counterproductive.

We respectfully call on:

The Hon. Rose Jackson MLC, Minister for Housing and Homelessness, and

The Hon. Paul Scully MP, Member for Wollongong, to:

1. Pause the eviction and engage in consultation with residents and community services.
2. Allow a temporary occupation or 'meanwhile use' agreement until development begins.
3. Support access to long-term housing options that meet the needs of these individuals.

This is what community care looks like. These people have found belonging, safety, and a way forward - not just for themselves, but for others.

Please sign and share this petition. Let's stand together for dianitv comnassion and common sense.