By Gladys Barreta
Crime prevention has become a key issue this election with major parties promising funding to tackle crime across the region.
On Tuesday, April 8, the Federal Government announced that, if re-elected it will invest $1.5 million to install CCTV cameras across the Melton City Council, Hume City Council, and Moorabool Shire Council areas.
Federal Member for Hawke, Sam Rae said the Labor Government would deliver more CCTV cameras to help ensure people in Melton, Bacchus Marsh, Sunbury, and surrounding areas feel safer and more secure.
“This $1.5 million election commitment is about tackling the issues that matter most to people in Hawke,” Mr Rae said.
The Federal Opposition has not matched the broader funding commitment for the Melton region but has pledged a $100,000 investment for CCTV cameras in Central Bacchus Marsh.
Liberal candidate for Hawke, Simmone Cottom said the investment is a direct response to concerns raised by the Bacchus Marsh community.
“I’ve heard firsthand from traders and the local community in Bacchus Marsh that more CCTV is needed to help deter and fight crime,” Ms Cottom said.
The Federal Opposition has been contacted regarding potential investment in CCTV for other parts of the Hawke electorate, but no response has been received.
Star Weekly asked Melton City Council about the importance of funding and strategies to tackle crime in the region.
City of Melton Mayor, Cr Steve Abboushi, said Council welcomes any investment that helps address crime in the area.
Neighbourhood Watch Melton City has also been contacted for comment about tackling crime in the region.
