Additional police resources for Aurukun

Published Monday, 19 June, 2017 at 01:00 PM

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Mark Ryan

The Palaszczuk Government has delivered a funding boost to continue high-visibility policing operations in Aurukun.

Police Minister Mark Ryan said $569,000 in funding was allocated in last week’s State Budget for the enhanced 24-hour staffing model to continue for the next six months.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to the safety and security of all Queenslanders – no matter where they live across the state,” Minister Ryan said.

“It is important that our police in remote and regional areas - including our diverse Indigenous communities - have all the resources they need to ensure they can get on with the job.”

Minister Ryan said maintaining the enhanced policing model was an important part of the Palaszczuk Government’s four-point plan for Aurukun.

“The policing response has been the cornerstone to improving community safety as part of the Government’s multi-agency approach to addressing underlying social issues affecting Aurukun,” he said.

“The local police have done an outstanding job in strengthening the safety and security for everyone in the Aurukun community but there is more work to be done to achieve a long-term solution.”

Commissioner Ian Stewart said the temporary policing model of an extra eight officers in Aurukun had ensured a 24-hour policing presence in the area.

“The enhanced policing model is allowing for a rapid response to incidents, proactive work in schools and public spaces and a strong deterrent for alcohol and drugs being brought into the community,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“We are grateful for the extra funds so that our officers can continue to build on the great outcomes already achieved in Aurukun and work towards a sustainable long-term solution.”

Extra funding as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s two-year $1.4 million commitment will continue until December 2017.

FAST FACTS

  • Eight extra officers are on the ground in Aurukun to ensure a 24-hour police presence.
  • The Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) was officially opened in December 2016. 
  • 65 CCTV cameras have been installed in the community.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Police Minister’s Office:                Ph: (07) 3035 8300

Police Media:                                 Ph: (07) 3015 2444