The City of Hobart will officially launch its new Safe City Liaison team on 1 October, introducing a dedicated community safety and engagement service focused on supporting businesses, residents, visitors and partner agencies across the Hobart CBD.
The new service has been established as a three-year trial following Council endorsement and will provide a highly visible and approachable presence in the city centre.
Three Safe City Liaison Officers will work directly with local businesses, community members, service providers and government agencies to identify issues early, support vulnerable people and help address emerging safety concerns before they escalate.
In developing the program, the City reviewed similar community safety and engagement initiatives operating in Perth and Melbourne. These provided valuable insights, with the final model designed to meet Hobart's needs.
Safer Hobart Alliance Chair Ald Louise Bloomfield said the initiative responds directly to ongoing feedback from businesses, community organisations, Tasmania Police and members of the Safer Hobart Alliance.
The team would work closely alongside Tasmania Police, while playing a distinct and complementary role.
The Safe City Liaison team complements existing safety measures already in place, including Tasmania Police, the City's CCTV network, contracted security services and Council compliance activities.
Officers will undertake regular patrols throughout the CBD during business hours, engaging directly with businesses and members of the public, providing reassurance, making referrals to support services and gathering information about emerging safety and amenity issues.
The service will play an important role in supporting vulnerable people by facilitating connections to homelessness, youth, health and community support services.
Quotes to be attributed to Safer Hobart Alliance Chair Ald Louise Bloomfield:
"We've heard from businesses and the community that they want a more visible Council presence in the city centre. This team will help support local businesses, build confidence and contribute to a safer, more welcoming CBD.
"These officers are not police and do not have police powers. Their role is to support Tasmania Police through engagement, education and connecting people with the services they need.
"The team will be an extra set of eyes and ears in the CBD, helping identify issues early and sharing information with Council and partner agencies to improve local responses.
"I personally fielded more than 1,200 social media comments when this project was first established, highlighting just how strongly the community feels about getting safety in our city right.
"Many of the challenges we see in the city are complex. By helping people access support and information we can improve outcomes while maintaining safe and welcoming public spaces."
Quotes to be attributed to Tasmania Police Acting Inspector David Summers:
"Tasmania Police welcomes the City of Hobart's Safe City Liaison initiative and the collaborative approach it brings to community safety.
"The team will provide an additional visible presence in the CBD, supporting businesses, engaging with community members and helping connect vulnerable people with the services they need.
"This initiative complements the work of Tasmania Police and other stakeholders, supporting early intervention and addressing issues before they escalate.
"Public safety is a priority for Tasmania Police, and our officers regularly conduct proactive patrols in the Hobart CBD and other public spaces to ensure the city and its surrounds continue to remain safe environments.
"If you witness unlawful activity, or if you feel threatened by certain behaviour, you should report these concerns swiftly to Police on 131 444. If someone is in immediate danger, call 000 (triple zero)."
Quotes to be attributed to Executive Director of the Hobart Chamber of Commerce Robert Mallett:
"The introduction of the Safe City Liaison Team provides visible evidence that the City of Hobart takes customer comfort and safety seriously.
"It is comforting to see this team of safety professionals developing relationships with traders and customers of the City which will enhance the overall appeal of the City to both traders and families.
"I congratulate Hobart City on the introduction of the Safe City Liaison Team and the tangible benefits it will bring for customers, visitors and traders of Tasmania's biggest shopping region."
