An elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide much needed leadership in tackling crime and making communities safer with a $459,167 commitment to support The Lighthouse – a charity that works with organisations that support children in crisis, by offering free literacy-based workshops.
Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton, who has advocated for a national approach to tackling crime, said only a Dutton Liberal National Government could restore community safety.
“I am committed to making our community safe for people. Rising crime and anti-social behaviour has been a hallmark of this Labor government, and it is a critical failure,” Mr Hamilton said.
“Today I am pleased to announce that if elected, the LNP will invest $459,167 to support The Lighthouse through the Safer Communities Program, delivering early intervention programs in our community.
“This is about standing shoulder to shoulder with our LNP State Government in addressing the youth crime that’s torn through our community.
“The Lighthouse plays an important role in supporting at-risk youth, and we know the sooner we intervene to support young people the more likely we are to bust the insidious cycle of crime.
“The Safer Communities Program, which was axed by Labor, is just one initiative that we would implement to keep our communities safe.
A Liberal National Government will also make it an offence to use mobile phone and computer networks to cause an intimate partner or family member to fear for their personal safety, to track them using spyware, or engage in coercive behaviours. We will also make it illegal to post material glamourising violence, drug and property crimes to increase a person’s notoriety.”
COO of The Lighthouse, Emily MacManus, welcomed the commitment to the community organisation which provides critical youth support and intervention programs.
“I want to thank Garth for taking our service and commitment seriously and this funding would go a long way in ensuring the sustainability of The Lighthouse,” Emily MacManus said.
“Our work is focused on bringing young people out of desperate situations, giving them hope and opportunity, and skills to navigate a difficult and complex world.”
“A commitment like this is a complete game changer for organisations like the Lighthouse Toowoomba. It’s a game changer for the children, giving them pathways and literacy and support to to go out and have other choices in life.
“This is amazing for us.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Greta Dwan 0414 211 908
