Despite two invitations from a Western Victorian MP, police minister Anthony Carbines has still not confirmed whether he’ll visit Ballarat’s troubled White Flat Oval.
More homeless residents have started living at the site, with locals reportedly turning away from the oval following a pattern of abuse and disturbing behaviour.
Joe McCracken said he’s aware patrols have increased in the area, but he doesn’t know if residents feel any safer.
“I don’t live too far from there [and] I’ve been down there a few nights and it’s just a little bit sketchy,” he said.
“I don’t think it’s right when you’ve got a beautiful public facility there [and] it’s not being utilized fully.”
Radio Ballarat contacted the minister earlier this month and asked whether he would visit the city and speak with those affected.
A Victorian Government spokesperson said they’re investing over $12 million in specialist homelessness supports to the Central Highlands area, including funding for an outreach team who seek out and provide personalised support to people sleeping rough.
They also say they’ve invested $121.5 million in Ballarat to increase the supply of social and affordable housing, supporting people experiencing homelessness.
