Footscray MP Katie Hall has called in Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt to meet with traders in Footscray to discuss health and wellbeing issues in the suburb.
Ms Hall raised the issue in state Parliament recently, stating that the meeting would be held to discuss support services available to people experiencing homelessness, mental health issues and alcohol and drug problems in Footcray’s CBD.
Ms Hall said she has previously mentioned the available services that support people in the community many times.
“From McAuley social services to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, cohealth or Reaching out in the Inner West,” she said.
“It is important to me, to traders and to the broader community that people receive the outreach services they need personally and that Footscray’s mall is an active, clean and safe place to shop or dine out.”
Maribyrnong council has also been consulted on the issue, as Ms Hall said she has previously met with the mayor and chief executive.
“We have met to raise these issues and discuss better enforcement of local laws through regular attendance of compliance officers and the possibilities for urban design improvements through greater activation, which is engagement I will continue with,” she said.
“I have also met with local police and a seniors community outreach representative to discuss ideas that might assist traders.
“I look forward to having the minister visit Footscray to discuss the state government funded services that are available.”
A state government spokesperson said Ms Stitt welcomes opportunities to meet with local residents and traders to better understand issues impacting the local community.
“Police are out engaging with the community every day in communities like Footscray, strengthening relationships and providing a visible presence to keep people safe and deter crime,“ the spokesperson said.
Jennifer Pittorino
