New funding from the Australian Government is now available to further improve public safety and security in towns across the New England.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, urged organisations to apply for grants now open under round five of the $55.1 million Safer Communities Fund.

Grants are available for schools, pre-schools and local councils with grants of up to $1 million for crime prevention initiatives aimed at reducing crime, violence and anti-social behaviour.

“The New England has been a big winner out of these grants in the past with nearly $2 million in funding delivered for security projects at Merriwa, Kootingal, Tamworth, Inverell and Armidale,” Mr Joyce said.  

“Our rural and regional communities are by nature friendly places but we can always do more to help people feel safe.

“That’s why grants like this are so important, to modernise the security infrastructure in our towns while delivering a better standard for you here in the New England.”

Eligible activities include security lighting, fencing and gates, bollards, security and alarm systems, public address systems, intercoms and swipe access.

Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, Jason Wood said this boost in funding for local councils and community organisations will help keep Australian’s safe.

“The Safer Communities Fund provides funding to community organisations to help implement and boost crime prevention and security initiatives such as CCTV and lighting,” Assistant Minister Wood said.

“The aim of the program is to increase feelings of safety in the Australian community and to reduce crime, violence and anti-social behaviour. We all have the right to feel safe.

“This fifth round brings the total funding allocated under the Safer Communities Fund to more than $180.1 million.”

For further information about round five, including how to apply and eligibility criteria, visit business.gov.au

(ENDS)