Police will run or attend events in the coming two weeks, marking the start of a 12-month campaign to link with the community.

Ballarat and Pyrenees Local Area Commander, Inspector Dan Davison said the engagement was in response to the Community Safety Network findings which saw 2400 people participate in a survey to gather insight and information about safety issues in Ballarat.

Community Safety Networks are partnership projects between the community, Victoria Police, state government, Crime Stoppers Victoria and Neighbourhood Watch.

They aim to help support communities and police to increase their understanding of local crime issues and help inform local policing priorities.

“Starting late last year, police were out and about in the community – in shopping centres and on V-Line trains – speaking to local residents, business owners and commuters about the safety issues that affect them most,” Inspector Davison said.

“Overwhelming, the majority of people feel that our city is safe – and that’s a great view to hear. But we also know that theft, youth engagement and the impact of alcohol and other drugs are issues that the community is talking about.” 

The first two roadshows starting today will be the Salvation Army Community House Elder Drivers Program and the Neighbourhood Watch Coffee Club, 

A full list of the road show activities can be seen online at engage.vic.gov.au/ballaratcommunitysafety or at the Ballarat Police Eyewatch page on Facebook.

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