Published Wednesday, 06 June, 2018 at 01:30 PM
Minister for Communities and Minister for Disability Services and Seniors
The Honourable Coralee O'Rourke
$3.3 million boost making nights out safer for Queenslanders
Queenslanders will be able to enjoy safer nights out as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s plan to support thriving communities in the upcoming 2018-19 State Budget.
Whilst visiting the Townsville Safe Night Precinct today (June 6), Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government will deliver $3.3 million this financial year to continue the delivery of the Safe Night Precinct Support Services in 15 communities across the state.
“Every Queenslander has the right to enjoy a safe night out in their community without the threat of violence,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“Our Safe Night Precincts are already delivering safer nights out for Queenslanders through services such as mobile patrols and rest and recovery hubs.
“These Outreach Programs will add another degree of protection to Queenslanders who are out and about on the town in pubs, clubs and on the streets.”
Safe Night Precincts are located in:
- Airlie Beach
- Brisbane CBD
- Broadbeach CBD
- Bundaberg CBD
- Cairns CBD
- Fortitude Valley
- Gladstone CBD
- Inner West Brisbane (including Caxton Street)
- Ipswich CBD
- Mackay CBD
- Rockhampton CBD
- Sunshine Coast (Caloundra, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba)
- Surfers Paradise CBD
- Toowoomba CBD
- Townsville CBD
Anglicare CEO, Ian Roberts said Anglicare North Queensland, who operate the Townsville Safe Night Precinct, has over many years provided much needed support to the Safe Night Precinct in partnership with our Street Chaplains.
“The service supports those who visit our town precinct to be resilient and safe on their nights out,” he said.
“Our rest and recovery chaplains’ team are very grateful for the wider support of the community, the QPS and QAS, and all our supporters in helping to make the town safe.”
These services form a key component of the Palaszczuk Government’s Tackling Alcohol Fuelled Violence Program.
Mrs O’Rourke said the program was helping to change behaviour in and around licensed premises in Queensland’s 15 Safe Night Precincts.
“This continuation of funding will ensure people here in Townsville and across the state can continue to enjoy a night out and stay safe.”
“Keeping Queenslanders safe is one of our highest priorities and is an integral part of making our communities thrive.”
Visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/hospitality-tourism-sport/liquor-gaming/liquor/safe-night-precincts to find out more about Safe Night Precincts in Queensland.
ENDS
Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389