TRADERS believe the installation of at least three CCTV cameras and improved lighting will increase safety around Sunshine train station.
Cafe owner Daniel Alemar, who met Maribyrnong MP Bill Shorten opposite the station in Clarke Street last Thursday, said the $300,000 project would make a difference in an area known as a hotspot for anti-social behaviour.
“We need more security cameras in Sunshine, especially in Clarke Street,” he said. “After 6pm we have a tough time . . . some boys drink and do drugs. It’s scary after six o’clock . . . it affects business.”
Home Affairs and Justice Minister Jason Clare said cameras were an important crime-fighting tool.
The funding comes from the government’s $40 million National Crime Prevention Fund, which is essentially money seized from criminals.
“The money goes where crime is worst,” Mr Clare said. “The business community has been calling out for this. When you put cameras in a busy part of town like this, it helps to deal with anti-social behaviour and attracts shoppers.”
Brimbank Inspector Chris Gilbert said the cameras were welcome.
“The environmental improvements, coupled with CCTV, will support our other community safety initiatives,” he said.
Crime data released in April showed Brimbank drug offences to March 31 were up 43.6 per cent, while crime against the person increased 10.6 per cent on the previous year.
A community ‘‘listening post’’ conducted by Brimbank council last year found safety in and around Sunshine station was residents’ greatest concern.
