Every morning, Pari, a homeless man in Sydney, is abruptly woken by NSW police officers telling him to move on. Despite causing no disturbance, he is denied even the basic dignity of a good night's sleep.
A Cycle of Displacement
Pari's story is not unique. Across Sydney, rough sleepers face constant harassment from authorities, forced to pack up their belongings and relocate daily. This relentless cycle leaves many exhausted and demoralised.
The Human Cost
"I just want to sleep," Pari explains wearily. "But every day it's the same - officers shaking me awake at dawn. Where am I supposed to go?" His frustration echoes throughout Sydney's growing homeless population.
Systemic Failure
Advocates argue this police-led approach fails to address the root causes of homelessness. With shelter spaces overwhelmed and housing prices soaring, punitive measures only exacerbate the crisis.
- Over 37,000 people experience homelessness in NSW
- Shelter occupancy rates exceed 95% most nights
- Average Sydney rents have increased by 30% since 2020
Calls for Compassion
Charities demand policy changes focusing on support rather than punishment. "Moving people on solves nothing," says one outreach worker. "We need affordable housing solutions, not predawn wake-up calls."
As Sydney's housing crisis deepens, stories like Pari's reveal the human toll of systemic neglect. Without meaningful intervention, this daily displacement of vulnerable citizens shows no signs of ending.
