The proposed project, if successful, would provide temporary housing for up to 100 people, including victims of domestic violence and others in urgent need of shelter.

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Over the past two years, Mr Lipovac has worked alongside Theo Hazelgrove of Camden Haven Community at 3 to advocate for the repurposing of the Ocean Drive motel site.

A petition seeking funding to purchase the site, which amassed over 12,000 signatures, was presented in State Parliament by Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams in June.

Despite acknowledging the homelessness issue facing the region, the NSW Government said they could not provide the funding support required.

Mr Lipovac said the decision indicated that the government had its priorities wrong.

“The NSW Government can spend billions of dollars on upgrading sporting stadiums in Sydney but can’t find a couple of million to help the homeless in regional areas.

“Their priorities are mixed up and they must reconsider the community’s request,” Mr Lipovac said.

Mr Lipovac recently met with the current owners of the former motel, who have expressed their willingness to wait for Community at 3 to secure the necessary funds for the purchase.

“I caught up with the owner this week, and he is ready to hand over the reins as soon as the funding becomes available,” he said in a statement last week.

“There’s a solution staring us in the face with little work required to make it a suitable venue for those in need, but it’s just been rejected outright.

“I urge Community at 3 and Camden Haven residents to not give up, and together we must maintain pressure and continue to fight,” Mr Lipovac added.

By Luke HADFIELD