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Homelessness, Mental Health and Law Enforcement

This paper examines police enforcement of the Vagrants, Gaming & Other Offences Act 1931 (Qld) and the Mental Health Act 2000 (Qld) and the implications for Brisbane's homeless population. Research was obtained through field work conducted with Brisbane police officers and an experienced social worker. Findings revealed that repeal of the Vagrants, Gaming & Other Offences Act 1931 (Qld), as advocated by various community groups, would result in little if any change to current police practices in Brisbane. It was also found that Queensland police do not receive adequate training to enable them to respond appropriately to mental health issues in the homeless community. However, rather than holding police responsible for exacerbating the problems of the homeless through their actions or lack thereof, it is suggested that it would be more prudent to employ trained service providers to meet the various needs of the homeless community.