For many Canberrans, the impact of property crime is not just financial, it's deeply personal.
For 18 years, the SafeHome program has been helping vulnerable Canberrans rebuild their sense of safety after experiencing break-ins, theft or burglaries.
What began as an awareness campaign in 2008 is now a research-guided ACT Government funded service helping Canberra's most vulnerable residents protect their homes and their peace of mind.
Since 2020 the program has delivered more than 1,000 tailored home safety assessments.
Delivered by SupportLink, SafeHome also provides minor modifications to households at risk of property crime. The program's contract was recently renewed for a further 3 years, ensuring continued support for those who need it most.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, said the program plays a vital role in supporting victims of crime and preventing repeat incidents.
"While Canberra enjoys a well-deserved reputation as Australia's safest capital city, we aren't immune to property crime, which can deeply affect victims' physical and psychological safety," she said.
"The SafeHome program is about restoring a sense of safety and control for our most vulnerable groups through simple yet effective modifications including locks and signage.
"The program doesn't just improve home security; it helps people feel safe again in their own homes, which is fundamental to wellbeing."
Since July 2019, SafeHome has received over more than 1,814 referrals and conducted more than 1,179 home assessments. In the recently concluded past financial year, it completed 325 referrals and 216 assessments.
A 2021 ANU evaluation found SafeHome clients had a revictimisation rate of just 1.9 per cent, compared to the ACT average of 3.1 per cent.
SafeHome is available to eligible Canberrans who meet specific criteria, including recent victims of crime, older residents, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people with disability. Referrals are accepted from ACT Policing, community sector agencies or via self-referral.
From providing home safety factsheets in 2008 to delivering tailored home modifications and emotional support today, the SafeHome program continues to evolve in step with changing crime trends.
SafeHome coordinator Mel Thompson noted thieves during break-ins now increasingly target car keys over other valuables, such as electronics and jewellery.
"In Canberra, we benefit from relatively low property crime rates compared to other cities. However, this doesn't mean break-ins don't occur. Many people say they never thought it would happen to them, until it does," Ms Thompson said.
"Our assessments are about more than just addressing weak points in home security. Often what is most needed in the immediate term is emotional support, listening to residents' concerns and referring them to other services to recover from the trauma of crime."
One resident, recovering from domestic violence, described the impact of a break-in as "devastating," saying the SafeHome visit helped her feel "far more in control" and sparked an action plan for recovery.
