Published on Friday, 15 November 2024 at 8:48:12 AM
Residents of Kalgoorlie-Boulder can anticipate enhanced support and services during the upcoming summer months, thanks to strengthened collaboration between government agencies and social service stakeholders.
Chaired by Mayor Glenn Wilson, the recent Summer Operational Meeting brought together key stakeholders to build on September's strategic discussions aimed at bolstering essential services as the city prepares for an increase in visitors from remote Northern Goldfields communities during the summer holiday period.
The meeting reviewed and advanced recommendations from the Goldfields District Leadership Group’s Summer Response Strategy Working Group (SRSWG). These initiatives aim to address various community needs, including improved accommodation and transport options and enhanced access to essential services.
Key progress has already been made, including the implementation of Operational Regional Shield, which has added four permanent officers to Kalgoorlie-Boulder to enhance high-visibility policing and regional support. Additionally, the Local Liquor Accord was reactivated, leading to impactful measures such as the expansion of the Banned Drinkers Register, the safe disposal of thousands of litres of alcohol, and intensified efforts against illegal alcohol distribution.
Further outcomes include increased funding for homelessness services and displaced individuals, along with a $150,000 investment from the State Government for new technology-equipped Safer Streets Patrol vehicles.
Mayor Wilson emphasised the importance of recent collaboration opportunities, including a significant consultation with the Tjuntjuntjarra community, the first in over 30 years.
“Senior Police, Deputy Mayor Kristy Dellar, CEO Andrew Brien, Director of Advocacy and Strategy Mia Hicks, Merri Best from the Goldfields Indigenous Housing Organisation, and I met with the Paupiyala Tjarutja Aboriginal Corporation (PTAC) Board and community members earlier this year. We discussed the support needed for those visiting our city and outlined plans for improvements to the Boulder Camp,” said Mayor Wilson.
“Being part of these consultative groups has been invaluable, allowing us to hear diverse perspectives on how we can work together to ensure everyone in our community is supported, respected, and safe,” he added.
The Mayor affirmed the group’s commitment to continue collaborating on initiatives that provide safe spaces and reliable transport options for visitors returning home and advocating for robust support services.
“These efforts contribute not only to the well-being of our residents and visitors but also to the reduction of anti-social behaviour, homelessness, littering, and crime throughout the city.”
“We look forward to seeing the new Safer Street Patrol vehicles in action soon, which will bolster collaboration between the City’s Patrol team and local Police. We are eager to further progress outcomes from the Liquor Accord and Summer Response Strategy group and continue to work together to advocate for and address the priorities of our residents.”
Pictured: Ali Kent, MLA, Member for Kalgoorlie, Kate Collins, Acting Superintendent, Mayor Glenn Wilson, Director Advocacy and Strategy Mia Hicks, Mick Kelly, Inspector, WA Police Force
Back to All News