Brentwood: community forum to address crime and safety concerns

A FORUM will take place in Brentwood following concerns from some locals about an “increase” in anti-social behaviour from residents in public housing.

Bateman MLA Dean Nalder will host the free Community Crime and Safety Forum at the Blue Gum Community Centre between 6.30pm and 8pm on Thursday, February 28.

Guest speakers during the evening include representatives from the Palmyra Police Station, Department of Communities and the City of Melville’s Neighbourhood Watch.

Brentwood resident Paul Vikas said residents had witnessed an increased in disorderly behaviour and crime, which they believed was related to public housing.

“The residents want the forum to be an opportunity for our concerns to be heard and for the Department to let everyone know the procedures in place,” he said.

“The area is oversubscribed in terms of public housing, 16 to 17 per cent instead of what is meant to be about 10 per cent.

“We understand that the Department is stretched but perhaps there needs to be a review.”

Department of Communities Metropolitan Communities service delivery assistant director Jackie Tang said her organisation was working closely with WA Police to reduce the impact of disruptive behaviour on the Brentwood community.

“Our staff will provide general information regarding the disruptive behaviour management process and pamphlets for attendees to take home,” she said.

“The Department takes its role as a landlord very seriously and holds itself to a higher standard than that required of the private rental industry where no strategy for disruptive behaviour management is mandated.

“While the vast majority of public housing tenants are considerate neighbours, some tenancies disrupt the peace and safety of the neighbourhood.

“Residents should report disruptive behaviour to the Department’s dedicated Disruptive Behaviour Reporting Line on 1300 597 076. All reports are treated confidentially and are thoroughly investigated.”

Mr Nalder said a large number of constituents had contacted his office in the past month with concerns of anti-social behaviour, which prompted him to organise the community forum.

“Community safety is always an issue whether it be concerns about break-ins, anti-social behaviour or safety fears,” he said.

“This community forum is an opportunity for the Police and the Department of Communities to provide residents with the necessary processes for reporting antisocial behaviour.

“It’s also a great place to meet the local Police and hear tips on being vigilant with locking your home and cars.”

People interested in attending the forum can RSVP by emailing denise.garner@mp.wa.gov.au or by phoning 9316 1377 by Monday, February 25.