Latrobe City Council is taking proactive steps to enhance community safety and reduce anti-social behaviour in key CBD areas through the development of a localised community outreach program.
At its November meeting, Council unanimously resolved to allocate $30,000 from its accumulated unallocated cash reserve to develop a tailored community outreach model focused on supporting vulnerable individuals and improving safety in public spaces with high-traffic areas, such as CBD’s and transport hubs.
The proposed program aims to connect people with the appropriate support services through a flexible, community-based outreach approach. The model will be developed with input from local stakeholders to ensure it reflects the unique needs and priorities of Latrobe City communities.
Mayor, Dale Harriman said the initiative represents an important step toward a safer, more connected community.
“Community safety is a priority for Council, our community and retailers,” said the Mayor.
“We are responding directly to the concerns of community and retailers about antisocial behaviour in our CBDs with the aim of stopping or reducing it. This outreach model is about taking practical steps on the ground — having trained outreach staff who can engage with people, de-escalate situations and connect them with the help they need.
“Our aim is to make our CBDs and transport hubs safer and more welcoming for everyone, while also addressing the underlying issues that contribute to anti-social behaviour.”
Council’s ongoing advocacy to the State Government for support has included a call for an increase in Protective Service Officers (PSO) in CBD areas and around transport hubs, including Morwell and Moe Railway stations and a meeting held earlier this year with the Minister for Police and Community Safety to discuss local safety challenges.
Council acknowledged the community safety forum led by Minister Shing as part of broader efforts to improve local safety outcomes, but says it is uncertain if further action is planned by the State government.
“We met with the Minister for Police earlier this year and requested he visit Latrobe City to view the problem firsthand and assist in developing a solution. Council is disappointed that a visit has not occurred and that no further support or solutions have been provided by the Minister or the State Government,” said the Mayor.
“In the absence of State action, Council is continuing to lead locally developing practical, community-focused initiatives that deliver real change and make a difference on the ground.
“We can’t do this alone. We are hopeful that State representatives will visit Latrobe City to see first-hand the challenges we’re facing. Council officers have also sought to coordinate a visit from the Police Commissioner to discuss local safety challenges and advocate for further State Government support.”
Council says the proposed Community Outreach Program will be designed to complement existing community safety initiatives and policing efforts, ensuring a coordinated and compassionate approach to managing public spaces across Latrobe City.
A detailed report outlining the model and options for its implementation will be presented to Council at a future meeting.
