The highly successful Business Security Assistance Program (Biz Secure) has been expanded.

Individual Territory business owners wanting to secure their premises will no longer have to make a co-contribution under the grant scheme.

The change brings Biz Secure into line with the Alcohol Secure scheme which doesn’t require businesses to co-contribute for works up to $10,000 in value.

Both programs are part of the suite of measures introduced by the Territory Labor Government to address anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime across the Territory, including bringing back the Banned Drinkers Register which the CLP scrapped.

Up to $10,000 is available per eligible premise under the Biz Secure Program.

The decision to change the Biz Secure co-contribution comes as 82% of business owners who installed security measures under the program report they have not had a break-in since work was completed.

This represents a 74% reduction in the number of business owners who have been a victim of a break-in or attempted break-in.

Business owners who have already implemented security improvements under the Biz Secure program will be eligible to apply for additional security without a co-contribution.

The $5 million Biz Secure and Alcohol Secure programs are designed to improve the security of premises and protect alcohol stocks against theft and damage.

Nearly 800 business owners have taken advantage of either Biz Secure or Alcohol Secure to crime-proof their premises. Work includes installation of security systems (CCTV and alarms), securing doors and windows and improved lighting.

The program will operate until funding runs out. For more information and to view the new terms and conditions and Questions and Answers, please visit the Biz secure website at www.bizsecure.nt.gov.au.

Quotes from the Minister for Trade, Business and Innovation Michael Gunner

“We have a 5-point plan to tackle anti-social behaviour. We have a comprehensive plan to tackle property crime. We’re reforming our youth justice system.

“Only a Territory Labor Government is serious about tackling these issues. Unlike the CLP we’ve invested in more police, brought back the Banned Drinkers’ Register and funded youth justice programs.

 “Biz Secure gives small business owners who are already doing it tough the ability to protect their premises and prevent further attacks on their livelihood.”

 Media contact: Cameron Angus 0404 021 192.