By Victoria Stone-Meadows
MINISTER for Police Lisa Neville has addressed concerns within the community that funding to the Neighbourhood Watch program in Casey and across the state had been cut.
In a statement provided to Star News, Ms Neville assured the residents of Casey that the Neighbourhood Watch program continues to be funded and operational.
Ms Neville said the confusion surrounding funding for the Neighbourhood Watch had been caused by an announcement of extra funding for all community safety programs.
“The Community Safety Statement includes $5.6 million in funding for 12 new community safety networks, and additional funding for Neighbourhood Watch and targeted campaigns by Crime Stoppers,” Ms Neville said.
“These initiatives are part of our plan to improve community connectedness with Victoria Police.”
A statement released by Shadow Minister for Community Safety Edward O’Donohue claimed that the State Government had not renewed funding to Neighbourhood Watch Groups.
“Neighbourhood Watch and its hardworking volunteers have served the community for decades and deserve our support.”
“Despite experiencing a crime tsunami with many in the community living in fear, Daniel Andrews cut funding to the respected and proven Neighbourhood Watch,” he said.
However, Ms Neville has said that Mr O’Donohue’s comments simply were not true and the government was committed to continuing funding the Neighbourhood Watch Program.
“In our first year of government, we refunded Neighbourhood Watch with a base grant of $150,000,” she said.
“It’s about bringing together police, community members and local businesses to prevent crime and victimisation before it occurs, and reduce harm in our communities.”
