Launceston City Council is currently seeking national funding for a community safety program aimed at enhancing crime prevention and public transport. Council has applied for funding in partnership with State owned passenger transport company, Metro Tasmania.
An application has been made under the Australian Government’s National Community Crime Prevention Program (NCCPP) within the Community Partnership category, to provide a safer public bus transport system. The total grant funds being sought are just over $438,000, with the total project budget being $922,000. This would target community safety issues around antisocial behaviour at bus stops within the Launceston CBD and on public transport systems.
If successful, the 12 months funding for Project Safe Bus Stops and Travel (Project SBST) will provide the following:
- installation of closed circuit televisions (CCTVs) at identified trouble spots in the CBD which are in close proximity to bus stops
- installation of CCTVs in 50 Metro Tasmania Launceston based buses to alleviate the personal fear of antisocial behaviour, crime and/or violence that is perceived by commuters.
Project SBST specifically aims to alleviate fear of crime within vulnerable community groups such as seniors, school children and youth. Council hopes that by increasing surveillance at strategic locations it can deter antisocial behaviour in buses and at bus stops.
“Importantly, the benefits of this project will last beyond the 12 month funding period,” said Council’s Acting General Manager, Rod Sweetnam. “Facilities and infrastructure will continue to be maintained by Council and Metro Tasmania as an integral part of our crime prevention strategies.”
Launceston’s Vision 2020, which was developed following a six month community consultative program, identifies public transport and safety as a priority area.
Council and Metro Tasmania expect to be informed of the application’s outcome within the next three months and will assess the best course of action if unsuccessful at that time.
For further information contact Lisa Mies at Launceston City Council on (03) 6323 3000.
