Safety forum funding hope

Jane Emerick
A community forum on safety could lead to federal funding for more closed-circuit cameras in central Geelong, according to a spokesperson for the Member for Corangamite Stewart McArthur.
The spokesperson said closed-circuit cameras were a way Federal Government could help improve safety in the city area.
The announcement could put Geelong violence on the election agenda in the region amid ongoing concerns and reports about attacks after dark in the city. City violence has prompted meetings between Geelong police and nightclub operators on potential measures to boost safety.
“The Federal Government can’t increase police numbers because that’s a state responsibility but we can fund local projects that improve the broader issue of community safety,” the spokesperson said.
Mr McArthur and Liberal Corio candidate Angelo Kakouros had met Justice Minister David Johnston to discuss convening a safety forum in Geelong “and things like increased closed-circuit cameras in the city centre”, the spokesperson said.
Mr McArthur’s office expected to set a date for the forum next week.
The spokesperson said the Justice Minister might attend.
“It would give local government representatives and members of the community who have an active interest in this area a chance to voice their opinion,” he said.
“Closed-circuit cameras could be a result.”
Mr McArthur said he invited the minister to Geelong amid widespread concerns about violence in the central city area.
“Residents feel more needs to be done to protect people from violent assaults,” Mr McArthur said.
“Geelong and the Surf Coast is a fantastic place to live and work but the region’s reputation is at risk of being harmed by the frequency of serious violent and sexual assaults.”
Federal Government this week allocated $14,779 to local community groups under a National Community Crime Prevention program.
Bellarine Police Community Support Register received $4997 for promotion, marketing and its emergency database.
Other shares included $4500 to Barwon Coast Committee of Management for lighting at Ocean Grove to improve safety during New Year’s Eve and $3500 for Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club to upgrade security.