The issue of crime needs to be at the top of the agenda

THE Gunner government has an urgent and serious problem on its hands — and that problem is crime.

THE Gunner government has an urgent and serious problem on its hands.

And that problem is crime.

Whether it’s youth or adult crime, the powerful feeling among Territorians is that criminals are not punished harshly enough.

The government or justice system can argue all they like this is not the case but when we have seen police come down hard on people who haven’t worn a mask or gone for a walk outside to escape in-home quarantine, it is expected the same treatment would be applied to real, hardened criminals.

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Territorians believe those who get caught breaking into a home or stealing a car pretty much get a slap on the wrist. The perception is that the consequences don’t match the crime and because repeat offenders continue to offend this perception is reality.

Across one night on Monday, the Berry Springs Tavern, Char and Outback Steaks and Curry were all broken into.

Then we found out the government banned all live events in Alice Springs’ Todd Mall because of crime concerns in the Red Centre capital.

Chief Minister Michael Gunner has enjoyed a six-month honeymoon period since winning the election but that honeymoon is over.

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Mr Gunner and his deputy Nicole Manison, together with Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker and leaders in the justice system, need to get together urgently to work out a way to address the crime issue before it spirals out of control.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been positive for the Territory in many ways but the issue of crime continues to impact our reputation whether we like it or not.

For the Territory to reach its full economic potential, the issue of crime needs to be at the top of the agenda.