Homeowner fined for sleeping in driveway in Australia

A homeowner in Australia is upset after receiving an $806 fine for sleeping in her van parked in her own driveway. The incident happened on the Gold Coast when police and a council ranger approached her van around 1:30 AM. They mistook her for being homeless and told her to seek help from the Department of Housing. Belinda Hunt, the homeowner, explained that she was waiting for her new home to be built nearby. She showed the officers her driver's license, which had the same address as her property, and asked them to check her vehicle registration. Despite this, she was fined for "unlawful camping in a public place." Belinda plans to contest the fine, saying the encounter frightened her and affected her sleep. She described how the police treated her as if she was doing something wrong. This incident highlights a growing concern among van travelers in Australia, as many fear being fined while sleeping in their vehicles. Across the country, other campers have shared similar experiences. One camper received a $312 fine while trying to sleep at a boating ramp after being unable to find space at a caravan park. Reports of council rangers waking up sleeping backpackers have also emerged, indicating that local councils are tightening their regulations on overnight parking. These actions by councils come in response to an increase in illegal camping. Authorities argue that this behavior can lead to antisocial activities and restrict public access. Some councils in Queensland and Perth have implemented stricter parking limits and reduced amenities in high-traffic areas to discourage camping.