Small and family businesses in two Scenic Rim business precincts will benefit from a $150,700 Queensland Government investment in critical crime prevention measures.
Scenic Rim Regional Council was successful in obtaining two grants delivered through Round 1 of the Government’s $40 million Secure Communities Partnership.
Grants of $69,300 and $81,400 will be used by Council to upgrade the CCTV networks in Canungra and Beaudesert respectively, allowing for the installation of new cameras to improve surveillance, deter crime, and assist law enforcement in investigating unlawful activities.
Member for Scenic Rim, Jon Krause, said he had been pleased to support Council’s applications for funding after many discussions with locals, small business owners and community leaders who had raised concerns about the need for improved crime prevention infrastructure.
“The impact of crime against a family-owned or small business imposes not only a significant financial burden but also a heavy emotional toll,” he said.
“These upgrades will undoubtedly deliver stronger protections to help keep crime at bay.”
Mr Krause stressed that the program was the beginning of long-overdue improvements.
“This first round of funding is just that – a first step in updating critical safety infrastructure that was neglected under the soft-on-crime former Labor Government.
“I was glad to write letters of support for both of Council’s applications, and I will continue to fight for further investment in safety measures across the Scenic Rim, including the installation of CCTV in towns such as Boonah,” he said.
Minister for Small and Family Business, Steve Minnikin highlighted the importance of the program in supporting Queensland’s small business community.
“Small businesses underpin our economy, and we’re proud to support them in return,” Minister Minnikin said.
“For a small business owner, the cost of crime against their business cannot be understated.
“Through the $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program, we are working to deliver practical, on the ground solutions that deter crime and create safer, more welcoming business areas.
“This funding is about making sure that we are safeguarding the livelihoods of small and family business owners so they can keep doing what they do best.”
In Canungra, new cameras will be installed along Christie Street, Pine Street, Kidston Street and Appel Street.
In Beaudesert, CCTV locations include multiple sites along Brisbane Street, Telemon Street, and the corner of William and Anna Streets.
Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program will be launched before the end of the year and will allow eligible small businesses to apply directly for funding to implement crime prevention measures.
To sign up to be notified of Round 2 opening, or see a full list of approved projects for Round 1, visit business.qld.gov.au