Council is set to adopt its new Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan next week, outlining a coordinated roadmap to tackle key safety issues across the local government area.
The comprehensive plan outlines how Council will work with a range of stakeholders from law enforcement, social services and community organisations and is designed to address critical issues such as anti-social behaviour, homelessness, graffiti and community safety, while prioritising mental health, wellbeing and community cohesion.
Council undertook a series of community engagement activities including Community Safety Audits in 2023, a Liveability Survey in 2024, and a Community Safety and Wellbeing Survey in 2025 to identify safety initiatives that best support the needs of the Townsville community.
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the plan directly responds to what resident have told Council are their top safety concerns and priorities.
"Community safety and wellbeing is a cornerstone of a healthy city," Cr Greaney said.
"The plan clearly outlines goals and strategies for Council and our partners, including government and non-government agencies, to implement over the next five years, supporting a holistic and sustainable approach to community safety and wellbeing.
"From youth engagement and public space improvements to mental health support and crime prevention, this plan brings everyone to the table to create real and lasting change.
"Council invests heavily into community safety across the entire local government area, with more than 600 CCTV cameras in our network and a number of programs like City Safe Patrols to improve safety and wellbeing for our residents."
To support the rollout of the plan, Council will apply for $400,000 in grant funding from the Queensland Government's recently announced Secure Communities Partnership Program, designed to deter crime against small and family businesses.
"We certainly welcome the recent announcement from the Premier as a new avenue of support to increase safety for our community," Cr Greaney said.
"This new funding opportunity means we can increase safety measure by stretching our own budget further if we are successful — reallocating existing funds toward other safety measures like graffiti reduction, anti-social behaviour prevention and CCTV expansion.
"We are continuing to work closely with our state members to address the diverse needs of our community and ensure the best outcome for Townsville, our community's safety and our residents' wellbeing."
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie MP said the Community and Safety Wellbeing Plan is a good first step towards implementing long-term solutions for the city.
"Public intoxication, homelessness and mental health are complex issues and there is no silver bullet. But that doesn't mean we sit on our hands. We need bold action and fresh thinking to tackle these problems head-on," Mr Baillie said.
"I commend Council for this plan — it recognises the challenges but also the opportunities a safer, more vibrant CBD can deliver for the community.
"I look forward to continuing to work with Council, Queensland Police Service and frontline services to turn this Plan into real change for our community."
The Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2030 will be considered for adoption at the upcoming Council meeting on 18 June 2025.
