Security guards have begun patrolling the Footscray CBD as part of a six-month trial program aimed at reducing crime and improving safety in the area.
Maribyrnong council local law officers accompanied the private security guards as they began the 24 hour per week patrols on September 1.
The six-month security guard trial was approved by Maribyrnong council in July after community outcry at the rising level of violence in central Footscray, including the bashing of a man in Nicholson Street Mall on June 15.
The 62-year-old victim died in hospital less than a week later and a 43-year-old immigration detainee has since been charged with his murder.
While trial has been welcomed by some residents and local traders, others are concerned it could lead to a repeat of incidents such as the death of 35-year-old Somali refugee Abdinasir Abdullahi Salad, who was shot and killed by police on April 17 after he allegedly lunged at them with a knife.
The Footscray Community Response, a group formed in opposition to the security guard proposal, recently held a forum demanding trial be paused, while early feedback on council’s website has been mostly negative.
“Hiring private security is disgraceful,” wrote one respondent who argued the security guard trial ignored the broader issues of homelessness and drug addiction.
“Punitive approaches like security guards do not work,” added another, who argued that more outreach services and homeless shelters should be provided instead.
Another wanted more CCTV while at least one respondent supported the security guards, arguing that in 18 years living in the area, he’d never felt less safe.
“I shouldn’t be weary of walking the streets at night as a 38 year old male,” he said.
Acting Maribyrnong mayor Bernadette Thomas said the security guard trial was just one of a number of measures aimed at improving safety in the Footscray CBD.
“We’re facilitating community partnerships, delivering local activations, and continuing our work to support a thriving and inclusive town centre,” said Cr Thomas, adding that a new social support service and mental health clinic would also soon be opened in central Footscray.
To provide feedback on the security guard trial, go to: https://www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/footscray-cbd
