AS the community continues to focus on youth crime, the Greater Shepparton Community Safety Action Group met to discuss the newly created Community Safety Action Plan.
The plan provides a shared framework for partners to identify priorities, coordinate effort and support practical action that improves safety, connection and wellbeing across Greater Shepparton. They aim to focus collective resources on issues where collaboration can make the greatest difference.
“This working group is all about providing a holistic approach to community safety. By working together, and focusing on connection and wellbeing, we can improve safety from all angles,” said Greater Shepparton Local Area Commander Inspector Cameron Sanderson.
Key priorities of the plan include boosting safety in public places, engaging young people in community life and reducing harm caused by drugs and alcohol. After the recent road crash in the area, and the five people killed on Shepparton roads this year, another focus is reducing road trauma.
“Community safety is a shared responsibility, and the Greater Shepparton Community Safety Action Group brings together Council, Victoria Police and many other stakeholders to share knowledge and work towards practical solutions that make our community safer and more connected,” said Greater Shepparton City Council Manager Community Wellbeing, Renee Austin.
“This partnership helps ensure community safety priorities are informed by local knowledge, data and the experiences of people who live and work in Greater Shepparton.”
The action group is comprised of members from Victoria Police, Greater Shepparton City Council, Department of Education, Ambulance Victoria, Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District, Neighbourhood Watch, Goulburn Valley Health, Greater Shepparton Business Network, Primary Care Connect, Department of Justice and Community Safety, Connect GV, Department of Health, RoadSafe Goulburn Valley, Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative, Goulburn Valley Pride, Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and other key partners.
It will also involve consultation with sporting clubs, schools, and other community groups.
The group will next meet in October.
