Wednesday, 18 February 2026

 Georgie CROZIER (Southern Metropolitan) (13:02): My question is to the Minister for Environment. Local residents in St Kilda have raised serious concerns regarding a rough sleeping encampment in Albert Park reserve, which has now persisted for 10 months. They report rubbish piling up, fires burning, damage to revegetation works, vandalism of seating and graffiti of artwork. An escalation in antisocial behaviour has left members of the public too scared to enter the area. Volunteers who have been restoring the parkland for community use have been warned by Parks Victoria rangers to stay away. This location is 500 metres from the Australian Grand Prix track. Parks Victoria has confirmed that there are no plans to move on any people in the camp before the grand prix, despite the large crowds and heightened safety requirements for that major event, which is to commence in just two weeks time. Minister, what risks to the community have been identified if no action is taken to remove the camp and relocate these people before the grand prix?