The New South Wales government faced criticism after spending nearly $1,800 to arrange a homeless man’s return flight to New Zealand rather than providing him with temporary accommodation in Wagga Wagga. The move was part of an effort to clear an encampment of residents living by a local river, some of whom have been pressured to move on under threat of fines.

Mark Hudson, 53, a New Zealand citizen with permanent residency in Australia, said he was repeatedly offered a flight back to New Zealand by Homes NSW, the state housing agency, despite his desire to remain in Wagga Wagga. Hudson arrived in Australia 18 years ago but lacks a Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) record, which he said complicated his access to housing services. He reported being pressured multiple times by a Homes NSW officer to accept the return flight offer.

The government booked a flight for Hudson from Wagga Wagga to Sydney and Sydney to Auckland, which was later cancelled by the airline. Hudson, who has a girlfriend in Wagga and is preparing to take custody of his granddaughter, remains in the town with his dog, expressing reluctance to leave. After media inquiries, Homes NSW offered Hudson accommodation, which he is expected to accept in the coming week.

Hudson described the government’s approach as “bully tactics” and said he wished to stay in Wagga Wagga rather than be forced to leave. Advocates for the homeless in the area have reported that several residents of the riverbank encampment have been fined approximately $110 for failing to move on by specified deadlines. The local council denied issuing fines based solely on where people were staying.

Homes NSW stated it has been assisting individuals facing housing instability in Wagga Wagga since April. The agency confirmed that travel assistance, including flights, is one of several support options offered. According to a spokesperson, this assistance is extended to people who are ineligible for social housing or other support services within New South Wales and who request help to return to their home country.

The spokesperson further noted that discussions with Hudson about returning to New Zealand were initiated by him, where he reportedly has family ties. They added that if Hudson chooses not to repatriate, Homes NSW will continue working to find alternative accommodation but emphasized he is not eligible for social housing.

This episode comes amid broader concerns over the treatment and support of homeless individuals in New South Wales. Earlier this year, a high-profile case drew attention when Bikram Lama, a 32-year-old former international student, died while sleeping rough at a Sydney train station, highlighting systemic gaps in support and housing services for vulnerable populations.