Mr GUNNER - 2009-02-19
Earlier today, a comprehensive plan to reduce youth crime and antisocial behaviour in Alice Springs was announced. Can you outline to the House some of the initiatives that will be introduced to make Alice Springs safer?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Fannie Bay for his question. I am excited, not only as the Minister for Central Australia, but as a local resident of Alice Springs about this no-nonsense plan.
The Alice Springs Youth Action Plan is the most comprehensive plan for youth ever developed in Alice Springs. The plan will help young people avoid getting into trouble, and ensure they face the consequences of their actions if they do. Like many Alice Springs residents, I am tired of seeing young kids out on the street late at night running amok, and it is simply not on.
As I announced earlier this week in the House, we have continued the security patrols in the CBD until the Police Beat shopfront is operational. We have also committed to supporting a voluntary no school/no service code of practice for Alice Springs businesses in what I believe may be a Territory first. I will be meeting with the Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders in Alice Springs shortly to determine how the government can assist businesses to develop the code of practice.
A key element to the success of the policy will be ensuring that kids go to school. The plan includes a strategy to bring together the school-based constables, the Juvenile Diversion Unit, Aboriginal and Islander Education Workers and the home liaison officers into one group to coordinate efforts to reduce school truancy. Improved education options; better coordination of youth services; accommodation alternatives; and law and order and patrolling initiatives all form part of the jigsaw.
Madam Speaker, I am confident this plan will make a difference. I am determined to improve the safety and security of all people in Alice Springs.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Fannie Bay for his question. I am excited, not only as the Minister for Central Australia, but as a local resident of Alice Springs about this no-nonsense plan.
The Alice Springs Youth Action Plan is the most comprehensive plan for youth ever developed in Alice Springs. The plan will help young people avoid getting into trouble, and ensure they face the consequences of their actions if they do. Like many Alice Springs residents, I am tired of seeing young kids out on the street late at night running amok, and it is simply not on.
As I announced earlier this week in the House, we have continued the security patrols in the CBD until the Police Beat shopfront is operational. We have also committed to supporting a voluntary no school/no service code of practice for Alice Springs businesses in what I believe may be a Territory first. I will be meeting with the Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders in Alice Springs shortly to determine how the government can assist businesses to develop the code of practice.
A key element to the success of the policy will be ensuring that kids go to school. The plan includes a strategy to bring together the school-based constables, the Juvenile Diversion Unit, Aboriginal and Islander Education Workers and the home liaison officers into one group to coordinate efforts to reduce school truancy. Improved education options; better coordination of youth services; accommodation alternatives; and law and order and patrolling initiatives all form part of the jigsaw.
Madam Speaker, I am confident this plan will make a difference. I am determined to improve the safety and security of all people in Alice Springs.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016