The Shire of Broome’s Community Safety Working Group will meet again this month as it brings together key agencies to tackle issues of crime and antisocial behaviour.
The community of Broome in Western Australia (WA) highlighted antisocial behaviour as a key concern in a Community Perceptions Survey undertaken by the Shire in 2015.
In response, Council formed the Community Safety Working Group in November 2015, with representatives from the Shire, Police, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nyamba Buru Yawuru, Broome Liquor Accord, Kullarri Patrol, Broome Youth and Families Hub – Drop-In Centre/Helping Young People Early (HYPE), taxi services and Broome Visitor Centre.
The Working Group’s first meeting was held in December 2015, with the next meeting scheduled this month.
Broome Shire President, Ron Johnston, said crime and antisocial behaviour had again come to prominence over the Christmas break.
“Police have worked hard to respond and we are pleased the State Government has allocated extra officers to Broome to tackle this and other issues,” Counsellor Johnston said.
“The main purpose of the Community Safety Working Group is to develop a Community Safety Plan for the Shire, to support funding applications for new projects and initiatives, and we will be seeking the community’s input as work progresses. The Working Group will also identify key issues where short-term action can be taken.”
Recent work by the Shire included applying for funding to install CCTV in problem areas. Laneways have been closed in response to community concerns. Shire Rangers and Community Clean-Up Crew have been targeting key areas for litter.
“The Shire is also developing a new Youth Strategy with a Youth Advisory Council to be formed early this year,” Counsellor Johnston said.
“In the longer term, the Shire is working with the WA Department of Housing on its urban renewal project in Old Broome and including ‘Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design’ principles.
“We are also encouraged that the State Government is progressing a short-stay hostel for itinerant visitors, with tenders called for architectural services in late 2015.”
