OVER $2 MILLION FOR LOCAL CRIME AND SAFETY SOLUTIONS

Fourteen community projects designed to reduce criminal and anti-social behaviour in towns and cities across the state have today been awarded over $2 million in funding through the NSW Government Community Safety Fund.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice and Police Troy Grant said the fund was created to enhance the work of the NSW Government to push down crime and encourage local solutions to boost safety and pride.

“The NSW Government is investing in strong evidence-based projects to promote safety in communities, to engage youth in positive activities and to steer at-risk people away from a path of crime,” Mr Grant said.

“Hundreds of applications were received from communities across NSW proposing a range of safety initiatives with a focus on crime prevention.

“I’m proud communities across the state from Tamworth to Tweed, Port Macquarie to Parramatta and Griffith to Grafton will benefit from this investment.”

Projects to receive funding in the first round of the new scheme include domestic violence behaviour change programs, installation of CCTV and lighting, road safety education programs and a Midnight Basketball initiative.

Attorney General Gabrielle Upton said the grants are the first to be awarded as part of the NSW Government’s $10 million Community Safety Fund. 

“Crime has a significant cost to our communities, so supporting projects that reduce anti-social behaviour and offending is a good investment,” said Ms Upton.

“The Community Safety Fund provides a unique opportunity for local communities to be part of the solution to tackle the crimes and safety problems specific to their local areas.

“The NSW Government is committed to working with local organisations, associations and groups to target crime and address anti-social behaviour.”

Applications were received from non-government or not-for-profit organisations, community groups, chambers of commerce and businesses to implement local crime prevention initiatives up to the value of $250,000 and were assessed by an independent panel.