Image: Nicolas Nova
Incoming Queensland Senator Pauline Hanson has said she would like to put closed-circuit television cameras in Australia’s mosques, but the South Australian government has plans for the technology that are more community-friendly.
The government has invited councils to apply for funding to implement CCTV in their local areas.
Open until the end of May next year, the grants offer councils up to $100,000 to help improve safety, reduce crime, and reduce community fears of crime.
The state government’s program was first launched in November 2014. Up to $500,000 in total funding is available, and successful councils must match the money given by the government dollar-for-dollar.
“CCTV can help catch criminals in the act, leading to more prosecutions,” South Australian attorney-general John Rau said in a media release. “And — importantly — their presence acts as a general deterrent.”
Councils will be expected to use CCTV to target areas or populations experiencing higher than average crime or community safety issues. As part of their application, they will need to consult with South Australia Police about these issues and the objectives of their CCTV projects.
Whereas councils could previously only apply for the grants in a fixed window, the government will now accept applications on an ongoing basis. The government hopes this will encourage more councils to roll out CCTV technology.
“By giving local councils the freedom to develop their proposals throughout the financial year, we’re giving them the flexibility to develop reasoned, effective programs that can make a genuine difference in our community,” Rau said.
“This CCTV Grants Program is a great partnership between the South Australian Government and local councils to keep our community safer.”
Six councils received grants last year. These were the City of Port Lincoln, the City of Playford, Mid Murray Council, City of Salisbury, Adelaide City Council, and the City of Onkaparinga.
