Delivering safer streets for Riverina

STREET safety in Temora received an important boost from the Federal Coalition today, thanks to almost $40,970 in funding announced by local Nationals’ MP Michael McCormack.

Federal funding for the Temora Shire’s Safer Streets application will deliver 16 new closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in the Central Business District and around Lake Centenary.

The Safer Streets Programme supports communities at the grass roots to help address crime and anti-social behaviour, and boost crime prevention initiatives to keep our streets safe.

Mr McCormack said the installation of the new cameras was a big win for the Temora community.

“Mums and dads want to know their communities are safe and secure, so we’re investing significant money in this project in Temora to ensure streets in these towns are made safer,” Mr McCormack said.

“These new cameras for Temora will serve to bring down crime and anti-social behaviour in these towns, meaning their residents can feel safer, particularly at night in these areas.

“Today’s funding announcement is another example of how The Nationals in Government are delivering on major commitments for Riverina and Central West communities.”

Temora Mayor Rick Firman said he was delighted with the funding, adding that it would enhance the security cameras already in place in Hoskins Street and make Lake Centenary a safer place to be.

Minister for Justice Michael Keenan said the funding is drawn from the Proceeds of Crime Account – that is money taken from criminals and reinvested into prevention of further crime.

“Only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening,” Mr Keenan said.

“The Coalition will continue to reinvest money confiscated from criminals and put them towards projects that make our streets and communities safer.

“I congratulate Michael McCormack for his ongoing lobbying efforts in Canberra to deliver for his communities back home, and to ensure this project became a reality for his constituents.”

In the first funding round, the Safer Streets Programme provided $19.5 million for specific projects for the installation of CCTV and lighting. This is the second round of funding which will be delivered in two streams.

The first stream will fund community safety infrastructure such as CCTV and lighting. CCTV is an effective crime prevention measure that provides significant deterrence to anti-social behaviour and is a valuable investigative tool. The second stream will deliver crime prevention initiatives by supporting the vital work of PCYC and Bluelight organisations.

Further information on the Safer Streets Programme is available at www.ag.gov.au

Cristy Houghton