QCOSS supports the decriminalisation of public intoxication, begging in a public place, and urinating in a public place.

These offences disproportionately impact certain groups of people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and people experiencing homelessness, mental health, disability and substance use issues.

Our submission, produced in consultation with QCOSS members, recommends moving away from punitive response measures towards holistic health and social welfare-centric responses, that will help address the many determinants of health.

Any police involvement in responding to public intoxication, begging and public urination must be strictly limited and supported by considerable training and accountability.

Community and health services should also be adequately resourced to ensure that they can act as first responders.

Read our full Submission.