Queensland’s peak body for local government has doubled down on calls for the major parties to address the comprehensive juvenile crime solutions plan that councils have put forward, ahead of voters heading to the polls from next week.
LGAQ Chief Executive Officer Alison Smith said that while community safety was not a direct responsibility of councils, the liveability of every Queensland community was of upmost importance to the local government sector.
“Our member councils have backed measures including tailored local solutions, diversionary strategies designed to keep young people out of the juvenile justice system and increased support for crime victims,” Ms Smith said.
“As the level of government that is closest to the community, councils are acutely aware of the impacts of youth crime – on victims, business owners and neighbourhoods across Queensland.
“It’s why councils have put forward grassroots solutions that would help take the pressure off councils and communities who are paying the ultimate cost when local infrastructure is vandalised and public spaces such as playgrounds and sporting fields are continually damaged.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson highlighted the significant impact of youth crime on the local community.
"Over the September school holidays, we saw a concerning increase in youth crime across our region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“A number of our local parks were damaged, with several assets being vandalised, set on fire and defaced with graffiti.
“This is incredibly disheartening, not only because of the financial burden it places on ratepayers, but also because it diverts our Parks team’s attention away from their regular maintenance duties to address preventable damage.
“This is why we’re advocating for increased investment into community programs, activities and events for young people and more funding for youth development officers.
“This will allow us to better engage with our local young people and provide them with mentors that can help steer them away from destructive behaviours and towards actions that will have a more positive impact in our community."
Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Angela Toppin has raised concern over escalating crime rates for several years.
“We know that one of the biggest issues Queenslanders are grappling with this state election is juvenile crime,” Mayor Toppin said.
“In my region, we have unfortunately had first-hand experience of the impact a small group of individuals can have on the majority.
“Despite not having responsibility for law and order, councils and ratepayers are footing the bill, which also means fewer resources to dedicate to other important local services.”
Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Bruce Simpson challenged local police to think differently about how policing is delivered in their community and that councils recognise that strong partnerships are needed.
“We are committed to exploring innovative, community-led solutions, such as expanding the roles of Police Liaison Officers or re-visiting community policing,” Mayor Simpson said.
“We see this as a journey where we all must walk together, with the community as well.
“Cherbourg looks forward to continuing to work closely with all partners to keep our community safe and ensure that solutions are tailored to our unique challenges.”
Voters can visit www.voteforlocal.com.au and see how the political parties are stacking up on issues like building safe and resilient communities ahead of casting their vote.
For more information, please contact:
Dan Knowles, Media Advisor