Why This Petition Matters
Ballina Shire Council is considering using Flat Rock Tent Park as a site to accommodate rough sleepers. While we support efforts to assist those experiencing homelessness, this location is completely unsuitable and does not provide a long-term solution.

Flat Rock is a popular holiday destination that helps sustain Ballina’s local economy. It lacks essential services, including shops, medical care, and support programs that rough sleepers need to transition into permanent housing. There are also growing community concerns regarding safety and crime.

We call on the Council to find a more appropriate location—one that provides access to proper services and does not negatively impact Ballina’s residents, visitors, or tourism industry.

Key Reasons Flat Rock is NOT the Right Location
❌ Lack of Essential Services – There are no nearby shops, medical facilities, employment services. Without these, people sleeping rough cannot access the support they need to improve their situation.

❌ Risk to Ballina’s Tourism Industry – Flat Rock Tent Park is a highly valued tourist site that draws visitors and supports local businesses. Using it for crisis accommodation could deter tourists and hurt the local economy.

❌ Community Safety Concerns – There have been crime and antisocial behaviour issues linked to rough sleepers in Ballina. Placing an unsupervised accommodation site in a family-friendly coastal area raises safety concerns for visitors, campers, and local residents.

❌ No Long-Term Housing Solution – Without direct access to social housing programs, job pathways, or case management support, this plan fails to address the root causes of homelessness and will likely result in people returning to rough sleeping.

What We Are Calling on Ballina Shire Council to Do
✅ Rule out Flat Rock Tent Park as a location for rough sleeper accommodation.
✅ Find a more suitable site that provides close access to essential services, including shops, public transport, and professional support.
✅ Work with state and federal agencies to develop genuine long-term housing solutions rather than temporary measures that could create more issues for both rough sleepers and the community.

Sign the Petition to Make Your Voice Heard!
Ballina deserves a sensible, balanced approach to tackling homelessness—one that protects both the community, rate payers, and those in need of help. Let’s push for the right solution, in the right location.

📢 Sign and Share to Help Protect Ballina’s Future!