Residents living near Lang Park in Wollongong are "fearing what will happen next" after a 46-year-old homeless man was stabbed late on Tuesday afternoon.
Police are attempting to find the person responsible.
Wollongong Inspector Jim Fryday said two men were arguing when the 46-year-old was stabbed in the leg with a "sharp object".
He was taken to hospital in a stable condition, and was later released.
The stabbing prompted one Mercury reader, who wanted to remain anonymous, to write in and complain of the "anti-social behaviour" occurring at the park.
The reader said the shelter sheds in the park attracted homeless people.
"This incident occurred just metres from a children's playground and private residences.
"This has angered local residents, who have long requested removal of the shelter sheds in Lang Park due to the amount of anti-social behaviour associated with them.
"After this latest incident, many of us residents are fearing what will happen next."
Insp Fryday said the area was heavily patrolled.
"People come and go from those picnic areas and the park areas frequently so police obviously patrol those when they can for any crimes being committed," he said.
Insp Fryday said the alleged assailant was known to both the victim and police.
St Vincent de Paul special works co-ordinator for the Wollongong diocese Michael Irvine said homelessness was an issue affecting people throughout the Illawarra, not just Lang Park.
"That could happen anywhere in Wollongong Local Government Area or in the district," he said.
"Someone in Berkeley or Shellharbour could have the same issue - it's more about affordability and access [to housing]."
