The NSW Opposition has slammed the Minns Labor Government for leaving regional communities defenceless against the escalating youth crime crisis, as it pours all its focus into Moree.
The Premier announced an additional $2m over the next four years to go towards an existing pilot program in the region, while other areas are still no closer to a solution.
NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said the Government’s narrow approach is failing to protect residents and families.
“Youth crime isn’t just a Moree problem, it’s a regional NSW problem. It’s gripping every corner of every rural and remote community, and it’s getting worse and worse by the day,” Mr Saunders said.
“After 12 months of virtually no action Chris Minns is hoping an extra sugar hit will fix the problems at Moree, but the reality is things aren’t working and this is a drop in the ocean.
“While the Premier is too busy sending all of his attention and resources in one direction, places like Bourke, Dubbo, Casino, Tamworth, Orange, Bathurst, Kempsey and Gunnedah haven’t had any support and they are screaming for help.”
“People are scared on the streets and they are scared in their homes, and we need strong and decisive action to stop our communities from being held to ransom by repeat youth offenders.”
The Premier also announced his temporary bail laws will be extended to 2028, despite the Coalition warning they aren’t enough to solve the regional crime crisis and have proved unsuccessful for the past 12 months.
Member for the Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan said he hasn’t seen any tangible benefit on the ground.
“It’s been almost a year since the Minns Government announced the Moree pilot program and it doesn’t feel like it’s working at a community level,” Mr Moylan said.
“Everywhere I go people in my electorate are still talking to me about youth crime which raises questions around what the initial $13.4m has actually achieved.
“Something needs to change urgently here because my community is sick and tired of crime being committed by offenders who are already on bail or have criminal records longer than your arm.”