In Australia, homelessness is on the rise, with a 200% increase in individuals living in free campgrounds reported by a homelessness worker in regional Victoria. As rental markets tighten, many families are forced to sleep rough, while local governments are increasingly evicting homeless encampments, often destroying tents and belongings. This shift away from a welfare-first approach has sparked legal challenges, such as a recent ruling in Queensland that found the eviction of a homeless camp violated human rights. Historical context reveals that Australia faced a similar housing crisis after World War II, where informal settlements emerged due to a severe housing shortage. By 1945, approximately 300,000 homes were needed, leaving many homeless or in overcrowded conditions. The government eventually responded with large-scale public housing initiatives, demonstrating that effective solutions require substantial public investment. As the current housing crisis deepens, lessons from the past emphasize the necessity of a robust public housing system to provide safe and affordable homes for all.