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Coalition To Tackle Crime In Latrobe Valley The Victorian Liberal Nationals Coalition’s plan for a $29 million program to fund local crime prevention initiatives will make the Latrobe Valley safer, Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe said today. By Russell Northe - 25th November 2010 - Back to News Under the Coalition’s Community Crime Prevention program, announced yesterday by Opposition leader Ted Baillieu, Latrobe City would be able to apply for funding to improve public safety.
This is on top of $80,000 already committed by the Coalition for the reinstatement of the Night Rider Bus Service in the Latrobe Valley, a local initiative from the Traralgon CBD Safety Committee.
Mr Northe said communities were in the best position to find local crime prevention solutions that worked in their neighbourhoods.
"Under the program, local councils will be able to apply for funding for crime prevention initiatives such as CCTV systems, security alarms in community facilities, and other anti-vandal initiatives including surveillance, lighting improvements and security screens," Mr Northe said.
"Funding will also be available for community education initiatives that promote crime prevention messages and there will be a focus on funding professional development and resources for youth workers to better target drug and alcohol abuse and anti-social behaviour."
Mr Northe said local groups such as the Morwell and Traralgon CBD Safety Committees were instrumental in fighting for crime deterrents; however further funding and assistance was needed to reduce the incidence of anti-social behaviour.
"There are a number of issues that need to be addressed in our larger townships to ensure our streets are kept safe. Our safety committees do a fantastic job, however, there is only so much that can be achieved without a lack of secure funding for the future.
"The Coalition’s plan will help the Latrobe Valley in its fight against violence."
Mr Northe said local community groups, sporting clubs, businesses and neighbourhoods would also be able to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to fund proposals that prevented and reduced crime.
"The fund will be driven by local communities identifying crime issues and working with police and government to implement practical crime solutions," Mr Northe said.
"Grants will be available for community safety initiatives such as locks, lighting and fencing."
Mr Northe said the package was part of the Coalition’s commitment to crack down on crime by employing an additional 1,700 frontline police across the state and outlawing illegal bikie gangs.
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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