UPDATE: Security patrols in the Footscray CBD will continue until June 2023 following a controversial decision by the Maribyrnong Council on February 17. The council approved a four-month extension of the security program despite intense public backlash, with shouts of ‘shame’ echoing from a packed gallery.
Passionate protests erupted as members of the Footscray Community Response (FCR) rallied outside the Footscray Town Hall, demanding the immediate termination of the patrols. They urged the council to redirect resources towards emergency housing and healthcare, arguing that the security program has failed to address the root causes of violence and anti-social behavior.
Inside the chamber, Cr Bernadette Thomas, who initially supported the security trial, expressed regret over her previous vote. “To those who may feel let down by my vote, I’m sorry,” she said, drawing cheers from the audience as she announced her opposition to the extension.
The council’s decision was based on a mid-term review of the security program, which commenced last September. The review indicated that while the patrols had temporarily improved safety, they did not tackle the underlying problems plaguing the area. The council plans to transition to a ‘civic led’ approach that will implement measures such as enhanced cleaning, rapid response maintenance, lighting upgrades, and CCTV renewal.
Mayor Mohamed Semra defended the extension, citing consistent feedback from residents who expressed a desire for increased safety. “What I’ve heard consistently is that people do want to feel safe,” he stated amid the uproar from attendees.
Despite the mayor’s support, dissenting voices emerged among council members. Cr Elena Pereyra also opposed the extension, while Samantha Meredith, deputy mayor, abstained from the vote, asserting that the state government should provide more support to local councils.
The final vote concluded with a tally of 4-2 in favor of the patrol extension, with one abstention, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over public safety in Footscray.
As this situation develops, the community remains divided. The council’s next steps, including the planned transition to a civic presence team, will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of the security initiative.
Stay tuned for further updates as the implications of this decision unfold.
