Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, says communities like Murgon will be the ones that will feel the impact of the Palaszczuk Government’s massive 85 per cent funding cut for Neighbourhood Watch.
Mrs Frecklington said she was appalled that funding for the state’s 400 Neighbourhood Watch groups has been slashed from $500,000 a year to just $75,000.
"In communities like Murgon, we need a funding boost for crime prevention, not savage cuts like we’re seeing with this Labor Government," Mrs Frecklington said.
"At my Mobile Office in Murgon last week, I met with many people who are concerned about the level of crime in the region.
"I just can’t believe the Palaszczuk Government would target groups like Neighbourhood Watch for spending cuts.
"Neighbourhood Watch volunteers are a vital link between police and communities and we have several successful groups around the South Burnett including Kumbia, Wondai and Murgon which have been operating for many years.
"We need to boost community involvement in crime prevention, not destroy it," Deb said.
Murgon Neighbourhood Watch Area Coordinator, Darren Buckley met with Deb at the Murgon Mobile Office and agrees the funding cuts are very concerning.
"I’ve been involved with Neighbourhood Watch for about 15 years. It’s disappointing to see funding cuts, especially in Neighbourhood Watch’s 30th year, when we should be celebrating our many achievements," he said.
You can get involved by signing the 'Save Neighbourhood Watch' petition online at https://queensland.typeform.com/to/jQWd2V
