Hinkler residents meet Minister to discuss impacts of crime

Hinkler residents will today have the opportunity to discuss the impacts and causes of crime in the community with their local MP and Federal Minister for Justice Michael Keenan.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt is hosting a community crime forum in Hervey Bay, to facilitate discussion between Neighbourhood Watch groups, local police, businesses, schools, State and Local Government representatives and residents.

Mr Pitt said Mr Keenan’s visit showed crime prevention in regional Australia was a key priority for the Coalition Government.

“Criminal activity, including vandalism and general nuisance behaviour, affects every sector of our community. It impacts the economy and ties up our valuable emergency resources,” Mr Pitt said.

“In low socio-economic areas with high unemployment, like Hinkler, criminal activity is often linked to financial hardship, domestic violence, marital breakdown, drug and alcohol abuse and declining school attendance.

“That’s why it’s so important that all sectors of the community work together. I’m grateful Mr Keenan accepted my invitation to hear locals’ concerns and outline the Government’s broader approach to National Security.”

Mr Keenan said the Coalition Government had established a $50 million Safer Streets Program to provide grants to assist local communities in implementing strategies to address crime and anti-social behaviour.

“Only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening,” Mr Keenan said.

During his visit, Mr Keenan will also meet with representatives from the Fraser Coast District Law Association and Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce, as well as stakeholders concerned about the exploitation of workers in the horticulture and tourism sectors.

Media contacts:
Emily Broadbent (Minister Keenan’s office) 0400 390 008
Larine Statham (Mr Pitt’s office) 0427 653 814