Councils and community groups across the state will benefit from new crime prevention projects as part of a $4 million public safety boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Police Lisa Neville launched the opening of the grants, which will see councils eligible to apply for up to $250,000 under the Public Safety Infrastructure Fund (PSIF), which provides funding for security infrastructure that supports safe communities.
Projects that could receive funding include lighting upgrades, streetscape and other amenity improvements, or the installation of CCTV technology in high risk areas.
The latest round of Community Safety Fund grants is also now open, with community groups and local councils able to apply for up to $10,000 for projects that help prevent crime and strengthen community safety.
Projects that may be funded include new security equipment and infrastructure, education and awareness campaigns to help prevent motor vehicle and property theft, and small-scale, physical improvements and upgrades to public spaces such as streetscapes, parks and reserves to improve community use of these areas.
The grants were launched at Oakleigh’s Eaton Mall, which will ensure pedestrian-only access at three key intersections, after the Labor Government provided $250,000 to reduce hoon behaviour and improve community safety and confidence.
Works to install bollards and planter boxes will begin in September and are due for completion by the end of the year.
The Labor Government is delivering the biggest boost to police resources with 3,135 police delivered across the state.
The PSIF and the CSF are part of the Labor Government’s $25 million package in the Victorian Budget 2018/19 for local crime prevention initiatives, including youth crime prevention projects, and support for Crime Stoppers and Neighbourhood Watch.
Councils and community groups can visit, crimeprevention.vic.gov.au for more information, including grant guidelines and details of the application process.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Lisa Neville
“These upgrades at Eaton Mall will improve safety, security and public confidence in this busy shopping and dining precinct.”
“With these vital grants now open, local councils and community groups should put forward projects that help prevent crime, improve safety and encourage communities to enjoy our public spaces.”
Quote attributable to Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos
“Upgrades to Eaton Mall will ensure shoppers and pedestrians can enjoy the area in a safer environment. I would encourage the Oakleigh community and the City of Monash to consider the types of projects that will make a real difference locally.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020