The challenge is complicated by the gulf of differences between real measures of safety and the community’s perception of safety.

In comparison to similar cities around the world, Ballarat would be overwhelmingly viewed as safe.

In comparison to community expectations, the debate is much less clear. The ability to react to trends or developing community safety issues is perhaps the most significant stumbling block our city faces.

When new issues, such as the proliferation and impact of ice use arise, question marks exist over the capability and, often, funding, to ensure problems do not get out of hand.

This is on top of perennial issues such as the impact of alcohol or family violence. These are issues which are common to many regions of Australia and talk to generational and cultural problems which exist more broadly.

They cannot be tackled in isolation.

The expectations on police and government to tackle these issues are immense. 

Undoubtedly there is more that can be achieved by investing in more police on the beat, tighter restrictions on alcohol availability and greater understanding of the issues which lie beneath crime. Highlighting holes in these areas is important but taking an united approach is absolutely necessary. 

It’s why it is so heartening to see the community taking an active role in making our city a safer place.

On evidence at yesterday’s Ballarat Community Safety Awards there are many organisations and individuals prepared to do just that. This year was the 10th anniversary of the awards which continue to showcase the community’s role in making our city a better place to live.

It’s important that Ballarat continues to recognise these achievements if, for nothing else, it helps break down the barriers of perception which are omnipresent and motivates others to take up the cudgels in action to make our city safer.