Shadow Minister for Police and Corrections, Youth Justice, Youth and Future Leaders, David Southwick visited Shepparton and met with local police, community representatives and business owners to discuss the concerning rise in crime.
A round table discussion with the local police and community leaders was an important opportunity to discuss crime in the region with those who have experienced firsthand the local crime issues that are currently impacting on the region.
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said that crime is impacting all communities across the state and the Shepparton District is no different.
Greater Shepparton has experienced a 22% increase in crime and is ranked the fourth highest Local Government Area in the state.
“People are feeling unsafe in their homes, with residential aggravated burglary up 36%, motor vehicle theft is up 60%, local businesses are experiencing escalating retail theft and break ins, and serious assault is up 14%.
“Weak bail laws allow offenders back into the community which in effect we are seeing ongoing criminal incidents”, Ms O’Keeffe said.
During Mr Southwick’s visit, it was announced that under a future Liberals and Nationals Government a $100 million would be pledged towards a Safer Communities Plan, aiming at tackling crime and improving community safety.
The Break Bail, Face Jail would be reinforced as the centre piece through the Liberals and Nationals tough on crime approach, which will be strongly supported by:
- The introduction of Jack’s Law for Victoria – which will enable police to remove weapons from our streets.
- The establishment of Restart – a Victorian-first residential responsibility and discipline program; and
- Youthstart – co-ordinated community-based interventions.
Mr Southwick also had the opportunity to meet with a number of local businesses owners who expressed that crime is having a direct impact on their businesses.
Local business owner in the Shepparton CBD, Kamal Dhillion said that crime is increasing in the CBD and that more police is needed.
“We have some female workers that are feeling extremely unsafe”, Mr Dhillion said.
Paul Jerome, Owner of Talisman Mooroopna shared his despair with having multiple break ins, retail theft and over six broken windows.
“The offenders get a slap on the wrist and nothing changes, yet my insurance is through the roof”, Mr Jerome said.
Ms O’Keeffe reiterated that the recent 22% increase in crime is alarming and that the Shepparton District needs the police resources to ensure that local police are there when needed.
“With 75% of local policing resources being tied up responding to family violence incidents, the strain on regional police force is significant.”
