Crime Stoppers SA launch Go Fund Me campaign to bankroll rural crime initiative

After being denied taxpayer funds by the State Government for a rural and regional crime campaign, Crime Stoppers SA is turning to South Australians to help get the initiative off the ground.

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Crime Stoppers SA have resorted to a Go Fund Me campaign to bank roll a statewide campaign cracking down on rural and regional crime.

After being denied support from the State Government to fund the campaign, the not-for-profit organisation has turned to crowd funding to get the initiative off the ground.

Crime Stoppers SA chairwoman Sharon Hanlon said that the organisation relied on assistance from the business community and the State and Federal Government but was willing to look elsewhere to achieve its goals.

“We rely on and actively seek support from state government and the business community but tightening of our funding position has forced us to consider all avenues to raise funds,” Ms Hanlon said.

“We hope that South Australians recognise the value that comes with the Crime Stoppers program and are generous in their support.”

SA Police officers in Adelaide. Picture: Bianca De Marchi

The initiative aims to raise $150,000 to develop and deliver a campaign aimed at reducing the rate of rural crime which leaves farmers millions of dollars out of pocket.

“We believe that a regional and rural campaign is of critical importance to every South Australian, whether they live or work in a country area or not,” Ms Hanlon said.

“We know that regional and farming communities are already doing it tough and becoming a victim of crime or having crime occur in these tight-knit communities has a major impact on public confidence.

“Livestock theft across SA left farmers $1.2 million out of pocket in 2016/17. In addition, farms have experienced theft of farm machinery, equipment, vehicles, material, tools and spare parts, all of which are needed to stay operational.

“Adding to the concern, theft of produce, seed and grain — as well as deliberately lit bushfires — can bring farming communities to their knees.”

Figures show that 17 per cent of all farms will be impacted by burglary with more than half of those affected more than once.

Police Minister Corey Wingard said the State Government would be reviewing Crimes Stoppers’ request for funding at the next state budget.

“The Marshall Government, in consultation with SAPOL and other stakeholders, is focused on measures which help keep our communities safe, including those which target crime in rural areas,” he said.

Opposition Police Spokesman Lee Odenwalder said the campaign showed why Crime Stoppers is vital in the community.

“The Liberals have ripped nearly a million dollars from the Crime Stoppers budget, and Crime Stoppers is being forced to fundraise in order to fulfil its essential role,” he said.

“This is a cut which has a direct bearing on crime and community safety.”