Community-led approach to prevent crime and graffiti

Released 26 September 2017

Wagga Wagga City Council is working to keep the community safe by taking the lead on a proactive community approach to crime and graffiti prevention.

Two documents were considered at the Council Meeting this week, the revised Crime Prevention Plan 2021 (CPP) and new Graffiti Management Plan (GMP).

The revised CPP will go on public exhibition, while the new GMP was received by Councillors.

The CPP outlines Council’s role in addressing the issue of crime and crime prevention.

Director Community Janice Summerhayes says Council will work closely with State Government organisations and community organisations to deliver the plans.

“In terms of crime prevention, Council’s role will be largely one of facilitation alongside the delivery of our public programs and recreational infrastructure such as the pump bike track and skate parks as we work to complement the services currently being delivered in the community,” she said.

“Our role also involves lobbying for additional state and federal funding to assist in the delivery of State Government, non-government organisations and other community service programs.”

Closely linked to the revised CSP is the new GMP, which outlines preventative measures residents and businesses can take to reduce the amount of graffiti in their area.

“Graffiti is time consuming and difficult to remove. Simple measures can be taken to prevent graffiti such as introducing textured surfaces and installing appropriate lighting,” Ms Summerhayes said.

“We encourage community members to read through the suggested preventative measures and to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in Graffiti Removal Day on Sunday 29 October.”

These plans have been developed in close consultation with key stakeholders including the Wagga Wagga Local Area Command (LAC), NSW Department of Education and Communities, NSW Department of Justice, NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Wagga Wagga Family Referral Service, Anglicare and Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC).

Wagga Wagga LAC Commander Superintendent Bob Noble says both plans demonstrate a united approach to tackling crime and graffiti.

“Police welcome the development of both plans as they highlight the importance of multi-agency collaboration, as well as presenting preventative actions that can be implemented with the community to reduce crime across our City,” he said.

The revised CPP will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days from 26 September to 23 October 2017. View the draft document here.

Information on how to make a submission will be available at wagga.nsw.gov.au/public

To view the GMP click here.