Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has announced the installation of six new CCTV cameras in the Burdekin as part of the Crisafulli government’s focus on deterring crime.

In addition, Mr Last said the cameras would provide invaluable evidence when crime does occur, making it easier for Police to hold offenders to account.

“The government’s crackdown on youth crime is making a difference but there is more to do, and these cameras are an example of this government’s commitment to make our communities safer,” Mr Last said.  “We are sending a strong message that anyone who commits offences will face the full consequences of increased Police resources, stronger sentencing laws and additional equipment like CCTV.”

“Our communities are built on small business and the cost of crimes committed against them can have a devastating impact that can even result in businesses closing and people losing their jobs.  The installation of these cameras will drastically improve security for businesses in the vicinity as well as for the wider community.”

“While we have seen a reduction in the number of victims across the state, and locally, we are not taking our foot off the pedal when it comes to preventing crime.  We have committed $40 Million over 3 years to fund critical safety upgrades to protect the community as a whole with increased CCTV, alarm systems, improved lighting and security fencing.”

Mr Last said the announcement also illustrated that the government would cooperate and collaborate to improve community safety.

“Across the state, and here in the Burdekin, we have partnered with councils in order to take advantage of ‘on the ground’ knowledge and to leverage off existing CCTV systems,” he said.  “Our plan to address youth crime focusses strongly on taking advantage of opportunities to work together with councils, for example, and that approach is producing encouraging results.”

“The Burdekin is a part of the Townsville police district, and as a consequence, across the district, we have seen a 6.6% reduction in the rate of victims compared to the same time last year.  The people of the Burdekin made their voices heard when it came to crime and what has been achieved so far is just the beginning of the government’s response to their calls for action.”

“I was very open with people in saying that it would take time to address Labor’s decade of weak laws that created the youth crime crisis.  We are now in a position where programs like this and the introduction of rehabilitation and intervention programs are underway to bolster the results we have already achieved.”

“Statewide, just under 3,000 youths have been charged with offences under Adult Crime Adult Time laws and we have recruited an extra 1,000 police officers.  Resourcing our Police is an essential part of making the community safer and the new cameras are a vital tool for Police when it comes to both investigating crime and presenting evidence to the Court,”

“The Burdekin called for action; I committed to delivering it and now we are seeing promising signs.  There’s more to do and I am as committed as ever to delivering results for the community.”