Modern Australian
The Times Real Estate

.

Turning 'big brother' surveillance into a helping hand to the homeless

  • Written by Andrew Clarke, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Social Science, The University of Queensland

Surveillance evokes fear of a “big brother” state watching our every move. The proliferation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in our cities and the emergence of big data have only deepened this fear. Marginalised groups such as people sleeping rough feel the impact most acutely, as their lack of shelter exposes them to constant surveillance.

Our recent research investigated the role of surveillance in coordinating responses to homelessness in Cairns. Homelessness occurs here at twice the national rate.

For rough sleepers, being surveilled can result in unwanted questioning by police, being moved on, or even being arrested. We found, however, that surveillance was also used to coordinate genuinely supportive responses by local social services.

Researchers have linked surveillance of the homeless to efforts by public and other agencies to ensure city centres are attractive spaces for consumers, tourists and private investors. We found surveillance in Cairns is largely directed at reducing the impact of homelessness on the city’s image. This can result in people who are homeless being excluded from safe and familiar areas where they have ready access to support.

However, other researchers point out that responses to homelessness are diverse and multifaceted. Genuine attempts to help the homeless often exist alongside exclusionary practices. Despite this, little research has been done on how surveillance practices may interface with these more supportive initiatives.

We argue that the exclusionary effects of surveillance on the homeless are not a fait accompli. It is important to challenge these negative effects and to harness the potential for surveillance to contribute to social justice.

A tool to manage ‘antisocial behaviour’

Driven by concerns about the fragility of Cairns’ tourism-dependent economy, surveillance is indeed used to manage and clear public spaces of people seen as disrupting the city’s image as safe and inviting. People who are homeless are disproportionately surveilled.

Public debate on homelessness in Cairns often centres on “antisocial behaviour” by so-called “itinerant” Indigenous people from remote communities who sleep rough in the city. Local media, politicians and business owners publicly lament the impact on local commerce and efforts to promote Cairns as a welcoming place for visitors.

Acting on these concerns, local police, council and social service personnel work together to manage the behaviour of people sleeping rough. They do this either through enforcement – move-ons, seizing alcohol, arrest, and so one – or through efforts to remove the homeless from public view, such as taking them to the police watch house or local sobering-up facility.

Surveillance plays a key role in coordinating these activities. Information on the location and behaviour of homeless people is gleaned from council-operated CCTV cameras and foot patrols and passed on to police and other agencies.

Help with access to services and resources

Yet homelessness in Cairns is not only seen as a problem of antisocial behaviour. Community activists and social services highlight the social and economic forces driving homelessness. These range from unaffordable housing and barriers to accessing mainstream health and welfare services, to racism and the ongoing legacy of colonisation.

Indeed, even local politicians and council staff acknowledge that responses that move people on do not resolve the issues underlying their homelessness, which call for different approaches.

Reflecting these alternative views, Cairns has some important programs that help people overcome the practical, institutional and socio-economic barriers to exiting homelessness. For instance, the Cairns Street to Home program helps rough sleepers get into permanent housing. It also provides them with health care and (re)connects them to mainstream health and welfare institutions.

Importantly, these initiatives are supported by the same surveillance practices that coordinate the more disciplinary and exclusionary responses.

CCTV camera operators provide the location of rough sleepers to outreach workers seeking to engage new clients and support existing ones. The council also uses its surveillance capacities to help service providers locate rough sleepers who have no fixed address and often no phone in urgent situations, such as when they have a limited time to accept a social housing offer or are overdue for psychiatric medications.

Turning 'big brother' surveillance into a helping hand to the homeless Surveillance is typically used to monitor ‘antisocial’ behaviour in public places but could just as easily be used to identify people in need of help. tsyklon/Shutterstock

Using surveillance for progressive ends

Our research shows that, as well as contributing to the policing and displacement of homelessness, surveillance can help overcome barriers that people face to accessing the resources they need to end their homelessness. This suggests that while surveillance comes with inherent dangers, such as the exclusion of marginalised groups, these are not necessary or essential functions.

Australian cities have invested extensive public resources in surveillance infrastructure. Greater effort should be made to harness these public assets to achieve positive social outcomes, such as enabling people who are homeless to find housing.

Authors: Andrew Clarke, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Social Science, The University of Queensland

Read more http://theconversation.com/turning-big-brother-surveillance-into-a-helping-hand-to-the-homeless-104851

Beer Label Design for New Breweries: Where to Start in 2025

Imagine a customer picking up your beer based purely on its striking label. In a crowded market full of craft brews and new brands, first impression...

Functional and Fashionable: The Rise of Ladies Workwear in Australia

A perfect change in the Australian workforce has been happening in recent days. Women are contributing a lot in the male-dominated workplaces. They ...

Concrete Trailer Pump for Sale: Your Ultimate Solution for Efficient Concrete Placement

In construction projects where efficiency, precision, and flexibility are paramount, concrete trailer pumps for sale stand out as an essential piece...

Exploring Different Types of Solar Panels: Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, and Thin-Film

The demand for solar energy continues to grow as more Australians embrace sustainable energy solutions. A crucial step in transitioning to solar pow...

Common Mistakes in Food and Wine Pairing (And How to Avoid Them)

Pairing food and wine is often considered an art, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. The right pairing can elevate a dining experience, while...

Wine Tasting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Smelling, Swirling, and Sipping

Wine tasting is an art form that can seem daunting to beginners, but with a little knowledge and a lot of enthusiasm, anyone can master the basics. ...

How to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain: Tips for Homeowners

A clogged shower drain is a common household issue that can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can a...

Top Trends in Electric Recliner Sofas for 2024

Electric recliner sofas have taken center level in the world of furniture layout, combining consolation, comfort, and superior generation. As we pas...

Setting Up the Perfect Home Studio for Drummers

Creating the perfect home studio for drumming is a fulfilling project that goes beyond just having a space to practice. A well-designed studio can a...

Essential Guide to Surveying Services for Land and Construction

Surveying is indispensable in all land development, real estate transactions, and construction. The core of surveys, including metric geodetic and pre...

A Step in the Right Direction: Choosing the Best Nursing Shoes and Socks for Australian Healthcare Workers

Australian healthcare professionals need to work long hours for the people. They have to be on their feet in demanding situations. So, it will be ne...

Understanding Modern Art Movements – Surrealism, Cubism, and Beyond

Modern art movements have always challenged conventions, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression. From the fragmented perspectives of Cu...

10 Classic Dumpling Recipes to Try at Home

Dumplings are a universal delight, found in cuisines across the globe. From delicate folds to rich fillings, these versatile creations bring people ...

10 Essential Strategies for Effective Branded Advertising Campaigns

In the fast-paced world of marketing, creating an impactful branded advertising campaign is key to standing out and forging meaningful connections w...

The Evolution of Real Estate Software – From Basic Tools to Advanced AI

The real estate industry has undergone a seismic shift over the past few decades, with technological advancements playing a pivotal role in transfor...

What is RPL in Australia?

RPL is Recognised Prior Learning and refers to skills you already have that can be credited for further study or learning. For example, previous c...

Why 1/4 Zip Jumper Is Trending

The 1/4 zip jumper becomes the new status symbol. Yes, people like them. So, they are in demand nowadays. These jumpers are simple garments with a z...

The Complete Guide to Downsizing Your Home

Making the decision to downsize your home is a significant life change that can feel overwhelming at first. Whether you're empty nesters looking to si...