The City Safe Security Patrol Pilot program has been extended in Darwin’s CBD, with the Territory Government and City of Darwin awarding a 16 month contract to Territory Protective Services.
The 12-month trial program commenced in December 2019 to improve the sense of safety and increase vibrancy within the city centre.
An initiative of the Activate Darwin Advisory Board, the security service works in collaboration with the Northern Territory Police and other outreach services to deter anti-social behaviour, loitering, camping and other issues that create a perception of an unsafe city.
The patrols operate through a defined area of the Darwin CBD, including The Mall, both on foot and using golf buggies, while providing a friendly, engaging presence with the public.
Quotes from Minister for Small Business, Paul Kirby
‘Ensuring we have a vibrant and safe Darwin city centre is critical to the business sector and as Minister for Small Business and Member for Port Darwin, I want to ensure we can deliver this for Territorians.’
‘We’ve listened to business owners and we know the continuation of the City Safe Security Patrol program, in collaboration with Northern Territory Police and other outreach services, improves safety and the amenity of the CBD.
‘There is a number of initiatives – like the extension of our BizSecure grant program and improved lighting and activations in the CBD, but we know there’s more work to be done and we’re here to do it.’
Quotes from Lord Mayor, Kon Vatskalis
“Heightened security in the city and along the Esplanade has been on trial since April last year as part of a joint City of Darwin and Northern Territory Government response to improve safety and security for residents and Darwin businesses.
“The cost to council to co-fund the new arrangement is $400,000 a year.
“City of Darwin looks forward to continuing to work with the Northern Territory Government to explore longer term options to reduce anti-social behaviour across our municipality.”
Media Contact - Alex Cannon 0407 239 967