Premier David Crisafulli rejects Cairns mayor, Amy Eden’s Facebook funding call
The Queensland government commented on whether it will provide “urgent financial relief” to Cairns Regional Council to cover the cost of youth crime in the region.
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The Queensland government has ruled out providing “urgent financial relief” to Cairns Regional Council to cover the cost of youth crime in the region, despite a recent social media plea from the city’s mayor.
Citing a growing damage bill to council assets reportedly in excess of $100,000, Cairns mayor Amy Eden took to Facebook last week to lobby premier David Crisafulli for more cash following a recent break-in at Tobruk Pool.
In response, a spokeswoman for the premier said that while the state wouldn’t pay for repairs to council infrastructure, a fund will be established aimed at preventing crime across the state.
“The Crisafulli Government has announced the Secure Communities Partnership Program, which will fund safety and security measures to deter crime before it happens and help prevent the cost impacts on community groups and small businesses,” she said.
Tougher sentencing and a $100m investment in community-led initiatives aimed at reducing crime while boosting education, training and employment were key pillars of the LNP’s new policies, the spokeswoman said.
“Crime is costing our communities which is why the Crisafulli Government will roll-out the Making Queensland Safer laws before Christmas,” she said.
“Adult crime, adult time, gold standard early intervention and effective rehabilitation are all part of the Crisafulli Government’s plan to ensure fewer Queensland families, small businesses and community clubs become victims of crime.”
Everyone has a role to play in stopping crime and curbing anti-social behaviour, Member for Cairns, Michael Healy said.
“While the state government is fundamentally responsible for community safety, I believe it is also the responsibility of all levels of government, as they all have a role to play,” Mr Healy said.
“I believe there needs to be greater co-ordination between all levels of government in this specific area. This is a national issue that could potentially include a coordinated strategy and a budget process.”
In addition to state compensation, Ms Eden requested an increase in council funding to pay for community safety measures.
“In consultation with Premier David Crisafulli, I’ll also be hosting a roundtable forum to find immediate solutions alongside relevant government ministers and key stakeholders,” she posted on Facebook.
“I’ve contacted Police Chief Superintendent Kevin Fitzgibbon to identify immediate action on crime hot spots such as Tobruk Pool, Cairns Hockey, Sugarworld and Walker Road Sporting Precinct at Edmonton.”
Ms Eden, who has taken a hard line on crime, has previously said the tourism town risks becoming “the next Alice Springs”.
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Originally published as Premier David Crisafulli rejects Cairns mayor, Amy Eden’s Facebook funding call
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