Coalition crackdown on gangs and crime
29th July, 2010
Federal Member for Wide Bay, Warren Truss today said a Coalition Government will provide $179 million over four years to tackle violent gang and knife crime and build safer communities.“Australians deserve to feel safe in their country and safe in their communities. The Coalition supports a national approach in cracking down on gangs and crime,” Mr Truss said.
“Labor’s promise to increase Australian Federal Police officers by 500 ended up as just another broken promise from a dysfunctional Government.
“Labor cut funding for local crime prevention initiatives and their disinterest has resulted in growing crime in many communities, which is a real concern for all Australians,” Mr Truss said.
“To support the crime-fighting efforts of local communities and the states and territories, the Coalition will establish a National Violent Gangs Database so that law enforcement agencies can better track ‘bikie’ and other violent gang activity.
“There is significant concern about the increase of gang related violence and crime. In response, a Coalition Government will establish a National Violent Gangs Squad. A 200 strong squad of investigators will provide on the ground support to local police across the country to tackle violent gang activity.
“We will also tackle knife crime through the implementation of a National Knife Crime Action Plan. We will fund additional hand-held metal detectors to assist police in the search for concealed weapons.
“These measures are designed to keep Australians safe. Crime destroys local communities and more must be done to prevent it,” Mr Truss said.
Earlier this week, the Coalition announced a commitment of $50 million to give local communities across regional Australia the means to fund real measures to fight crime.
“The re-establishment of the National Community Crime Prevention Programme will enhance community safety and prevent crime through the installation of CCTV and other security infrastructure. Funding will also be provided to local councils to combat graffiti and vandalism.
“These measures will help to strengthen and secure local communities,” Mr Truss said.
