Crime impacted businesses welcome support to increase local protections  

By Emma Clarke

The Queensland business community welcomes a timely government acknowledgement of the economic, social and safety impact of crime in communities across the state. 

Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper said the recently opened $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program was a positive step in addressing one of the most significant business impacts.  

“Crime is a community issue which has become a barrier to business. Crime solutions must balance community and business needs, and we welcome the opening of the Secure Communities Partnership Fund to address this issue,” Ms Cooper said. 

“A tourism business in North Queensland told us increasing crime rates and anti-social behaviour meant they had no choice but to employ security to keep their staff and premises safe. It’s just one example of how private businesses are forced to take accountability for societal issues like crime and anti-social behaviour to protect their operations and ensure their staff and business safety.  

“During our consultation with businesses across the state in the lead up to the 2024 state election, crime was one of the constant issues we heard, from businesses of all sizes, in all industries and all regions.  

“It’s why we called for measures to enhance public safety, especially in high-crime areas that impact business operations; for example, increased police presence and improved lighting and surveillance in commercial and retail precincts. 

“We also called for financial support for businesses who are experiencing ongoing crime and anti-social behaviour so they can manage their business operations.” 

Ms Cooper said the Secure Communities Partnership Program for councils was welcome and a positive step to address the impact of crime on businesses. 

“This investment will not only make small businesses safer, but it will also restore trust in our local economies,” Ms Cooper said. 

“Businesses across the state will now be relying on their local councils to implement new measures quickly and effectively, and in areas that need it most.  

“This program, which is focused on funding for councils to implement safety measures such as CCTV, lighting, and alarm systems, is a positive step towards deterring crime and minimising the compounding costs of crime on businesses.”