Local communities in Forde will be able to apply for crime prevention infrastructure such as better lighting, fixed or mobile cameras, under a major plan announced by the Coalition.
In our first year, a future Coalition government will provide $50 million to tackle crime hotspots and help local communities deal with the problems associated with local crime.
Earlier this year I held a crime forum with the local police, members of the State Government, local chambers of commerce, neighbourhood watch groups and local security representatives in an effort to create a community discussion on preventing crime.
At this forum, it was discussed that one of the best ways to tackle crime is on a local level and this policy seeks to involve residents, shop owners and chambers of commerce, state and local government in identifying local projects to make our streets safer.
The cameras will assist police by capturing criminal activity, giving them additional evidence to assist with their investigations and prosecutions.
Improved lighting will make it safer to be out in our community at night; however neither cameras nor lighting should be solely relied upon. Please always be mindful of your personal safety.
The Queensland Police offer some good advice on their website in relation to personal safety. The following general advice can be found on their website www.police.qld.gov.au
– Be aware of your surroundings. Especially when using headphones or speaking on your mobile.
– If a stranger approaches you, use your feelings of safety as a guide. Remove yourself from the situation if you feel unsafe. It is better to be rude than unsafe.
– Carry a mobile phone so if necessary you can call for help.
– Avoid areas where you don’t feel safe, e.g. short-cuts through parks or vacant land or areas in darkness. Walk in the opposite direction to the traffic.
– Where possible, use busy, well-lit streets.
– If you think you are being followed or in danger of being confronted, cross the street or try to get the attention of people nearby – shout as loudly as you can or seek help at the nearest house, shop or busy public place.
I look forward to receiving feedback from the local community and encourage you to get in contact with me if you can suggest areas which might need crime prevention infrastructure.
Send your feedback to bert.vanmanen.mp@aph.gov.au or PO Box 884, Beenleigh QLD 4207