The Victorian Government is getting people back to work and backing 31 community safety projects which will provide an economic boost to local companies impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Minister for Crime Prevention Natalie Hutchins announced $5.5 million in grants for 14 community organisations and 17 councils, as part of the government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package.

Minister Hutchins was joined by Brimbank City Council, the Islamic Society of Victoria and Melton City Council to announce successful projects.

The projects include $200,000 for Melton City Council to activate Little Blind Creek Reserve in Kurunjang, $243,500 to the Islamic Society of Victoria for a security upgrade of Preston Mosque and $500,000 for Brimbank City Council to install CCTV around the Sunshine Activity Centre. Other projects include:
• Installation of CCTV and security infrastructure to the Boyd Lane and Walker Street carparks in Dandenong CBD and the Springvale Community Hub, detering anti-social and criminal behavior
• Construction of electronic gates, fences, and a lockable shed at Aboriginal support centre Ramahyuck in Sale which has experienced a number of break-ins due to its remote location
• A partnership between the Islamic Museum of Australia in Thornbury and the Chinese Museum in Melbourne to upgrade security, share expertise and provide opportunities for these two communities.
Projects will commence in line with current COVID-safe restrictions and, where possible, will engage employees through the Working for Victoria program, which prioritises employment for Victorians affected by the pandemic.

A full list of funded projects can be found at crimeprevention.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Crime Prevention Natalie Hutchins

“We’re helping Victorians recover from the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic by providing support for local projects that improve safety and boost employment.”

“Congratulations to recipients of the Community Safety Infrastructure Grants, who are working hard to develop innovative solutions to local crime issues and provide opportunities to those impacted by the pandemic.”