Closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) have been installed and are now operating in selected locations in the Sunshine Activity Centre.
Brimbank council, in partnership with Victoria Police and the Sunshine Business Association, received $388,000 in grant funding from the state government to deliver the CCTV system.
Thirty-four cameras have been installed in the northern and southern parts of Sunshine Activity Centre with a focus around the Hampshire Road shopping area, Clarke Street, McDonald Lane, Bennett Place, City Place, Sun Crescent and near the Sunshine bus interchange.
These are in addition to cameras already located at Sunshine train station.
The CCTV system aims to help Victoria Police address crime in the town centre, by deterring unwanted activity, and assist them to apprehend offenders.
Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said council has an important role to play in maintaining community safety and supporting police efforts in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.
“We hope the introduction of CCTV in busy areas of the Sunshine Town Centre will help improve perceptions of safety and encourage more people to come out and about, and visit the many wonderful businesses you’ll find in Sunshine,” Cr Lancashire said.
“The CCTV system is part of a wider program to continue improving and developing Sunshine as an exciting, attractive and welcoming place to shop, work, live and visit.”
Council consulted with Victoria Police, the Sunshine Business Association, and a CCTV specialist to determine the best locations to support police efforts in crime detection and investigation.
Council said community safety is of vital importance and the installation of the CCTV system is one of a range of initiatives to improve perceptions of safety in the town centre, as well as assist Victoria Police in crime investigations.
The cameras are owned and maintained by council. Victoria Police will monitor the cameras in responding to incidents and collecting evidence to support criminal investigations.
This is the second time CCTV has been installed in a Brimbank activity centre for public safety, with CCTV being in place at the St Albans Activity Centre since 2018.
