The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has written to the Minster for Police requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the surge in violent and anti-social behaviour across the Latrobe Valley.
It comes after Mr Cameron launched a petition last week, calling on the Andrews Labor Government to increase police and Protective Services Officers (PSO) resources in response to rising incidents of theft, vandalism and assault in Morwell, Moe, Traralgon and Churchill.
“I have invited the Minister for Police to visit my office in Morwell to meet with me and see first-hand the issue sweeping our CBDs, shopping centres and public transport terminals,” Mr Cameron said.
“I have been raising the issue of police and PSO resources with the Andrews Labor Government for months, and repeated calls for action have fallen on deaf ears.
“This is a very complex and multi-faceted issue, and I acknowledge there are many other contributing societal factors at play, particularly when it comes to young people.
“This is not about demonising or punishing people, but it is a step in the right direction in terms of deterring the behaviour in the first instance.
“Our police are not just law enforcement officers – they conduct youth outreach programs, link with local services to provide referrals, and work tirelessly to support disengaged youth – all these things help build confidence and foster positive relationships and behaviours.
“We have a responsibility to ensure our youth have access to information, education, and appropriate support services they can trust.
“The call for more police and PSO resources does not address the underlying issues that contribute to anti-social behaviour, but it is a very real action the Andrews Labor Government can take now to help the Latrobe Valley community feel safe in public.
“Individuals, businesses and retailers are welcome to print off copies of the petition and collect signatures.
“I will also be launching an online version of the petition in coming weeks.”
To download the petition, visit https://www.martincameron.com.au/issues/
To sign the petition, visit Mr Cameron’s office at 12-14 George St in Morwell Morwell or Melina Bath’s office at 181 Franklin St in Traralgon.
Several businesses in the Moe, Morwell, Traralgon and Churchill CBDs and shopping centres are also collecting signatures.
