Cardinia Shire Council hosted a Building a Safer Cardinia – Round Table meeting with community leaders yesterday.
The meeting was held to listen to concerns regarding unsafe behaviour and criminal activity and to discuss positive actions to create a safer Cardinia.
Council's meeting was attended by Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale MP, Victoria Police, Neighbourhood Watch, the Safer Communities Partnership Committee, township committees, the South Sudanese Cluster Group, the Cardinia Shire Council Interfaith Network, and Council's CALD Advisory Committee.
Cardinia Shire Council Deputy Mayor Councillor Jeff Springfield said the meeting was held in response to community concerns about criminal behaviour and to inform Council's advocacy efforts.
"Council cares deeply about community safety and acknowledges a whole of community approach is crucial to building a safer Cardinia. That's why we invited community leaders together to hear their views before a report into community safety is considered by Council on Monday 15 February.
"Council is considering action such as exploring avenues for community safety projects, increasing communication with our community, and enhancing our community education," he said.
Cr Springfield said Council has affirmed its commitment to working with other agencies and community leaders on safety matters.
"I would like to say a big thank you to all the community leaders who attended yesterday's Building a Safer Cardinia – Round Table meeting. It was a very positive meeting with everyone willing to work together on building a safer community.
"I appreciate the time everyone took to consider their feedback and suggestions on steps we need to take to help everyone feel safe and included in the community. There were some fantastic insights, and it was extremely helpful to hear opinions from representatives of diverse areas of the community," Cr Springfield said.
Council acknowledges Victoria Police's response to incidents and if you see an act of violence, call Triple Zero (000).
Anyone with information about recent incidents is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime
