Toowoomba’s Neighbourhood Watch volunteers are disappointed the government has cut their funding by 85 percent.
Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki said many Neighbourhood Watch groups were unaware the government had slashed funding for the state’s 400 groups from $500,000 to $75,000.
“Neighbourhood Watch are the eyes and ears of our community,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Police can’t be everywhere so now, more than ever, we should be supporting our vigilant volunteers,” he said.
Harristown Neighbourhood Watch coordinator Brian Jentz uses his daily walk as a chance to patrol his neighbourhood is encouraging others to look out for their neighbours.
“There are 750 homes (Area 14) and there has been a spike in crimes in Harristown recently, particularly break-ins and car theft,” Mr Jentz said.
“We are trying to encourage people to talk to their neighbours, get to know their neighbours – let’s get back to the olden days where neighbours looked after neighbours,” he said.
“If you keep an eye out it’s amazing how much you can help.”
Mr Janetzki said Neighbourhood Watch would celebrate its 30 year anniversary this year.
“Neighbourhood Watch makes a real difference at a grassroots level to reduce crime, reduce the fear of crime and enhance community and business safety,” Mr Janetzki said.
The $75,000 budget will be used to cover insurance, signs, household kits and warning stickers for the 400 groups.
It has been reported that Neighbourhood Watch Queensland’s annual conference, awards and various local community engagement events will be scrapped due to the budget cuts.
Residents are urged to sign an online petition aiming to Save Neighbourhood Watch: https://lnpq.typeform.com/to/MYn7TU
Photo Caption: Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki MP and Neighbourhood Watch Area 14 coordinator Brian Jentz discuss the importance of community-based crime prevention.