The City of Stonnington is taking strong, coordinated steps to enhance safety, amenity and revitalisation in the Chapel Street precinct and across the municipality.
At its meeting on Monday 28 April, Council endorsed two key directions: the next stage of its city-wide community safety response, and the Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan, which outlines immediate and medium-term actions to support public safety and precinct activation.
Mayor of Stonnington, Cr Melina Sehr, said Council was leading with focus and delivering clear, community-driven outcomes.
"This is about more than one moment — it's about building a safer, stronger and more resilient city for the long term," Cr Sehr said.
"We're taking action, engaging directly with our community, and backing it with a real plan, real investment and real partnerships."
The Chapel Street Precinct Improvement Plan includes:
- Increased after-hours cleaning and graffiti removal
- Refreshed public spaces and infrastructure upgrades
- Joint patrols and enforcement with Victoria Police
- Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) reviews of public spaces
- Community initiatives such as the Good Night Out project to support night-time safety.
Council is consulting with key stakeholders on the Plan now, with the intention to commence implementation from 1 July 2025. In parallel, Council is progressing a dedicated funding solution, with urgent engagement underway to ensure a sustainable model is in place to support the work from day one.
As part of its broader safety approach, Council will immediately establish a new Community Safety and Chapel Street Taskforce — a dedicated advisory body comprising Councillors, inviting police, health and housing experts, community leaders and relevant agencies.
"The Chapel Street precinct is too important to leave to chance," Cr Sehr said. "Council is driving this forward, but everyone has a role to play — from our local traders and venue operators to residents, youth services, police and community groups."
Council is also advancing regional advocacy with neighbouring municipalities, including calls for:
- More frontline police presence in key activity centres
- Expansion of Safe City CCTV
- Greater investment in mental health, homelessness and youth engagement programs
A communications strategy is now in development to ensure the community is kept informed and involved as this work progresses.
"If you're a business owner, resident or community member who cares about the future of Chapel Street, now is the time to get involved," Cr Sehr said. "This is a shared effort — and your voice matters."
To learn more about Council's community safety initiatives or to take part in upcoming engagement opportunities, visit stonnington.vic.gov.au/safety.
