The Protocol for Homeless People (PDF file, 569Kb) in Public Places provides a code of conduct for officials of participating agencies and homeless people in public places. Originally developed during Sydney’s 2001 Olympic Games, the aim of the Protocol was to ensure that homeless people were treated sensitively and appropriately and to facilitate their access to housing and support services at a time of substantial pressure on services.
The Protocol states that a homeless person should be left alone unless they request assistance; they appear to be distressed or in need of assistance; their behaviour threatens their safety or the safety and security of people around them; or where their behaviour is likely to result in damage to property or the environment.
The implementation of the Protocol during the Olympic Games was seen as a success and agencies and non-government bodies proposed its continuation. In 2002, the NSW Government expanded the Protocol to the whole State. The Protocol has been operating since that time.
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