The Central Coast will be one of 10 councils eligible to share up to $10M in funding for a program aimed at keeping streets, parklands and public transport hubs around the state safe.
The money will form part of a $30M investment by the NSW Government, with women and girls being asked to share their experiences to help inform infrastructure improvements and design.
Treasurer Matt Kean said the Safer Cities Program will put female voices at the forefront and is part of a wider $100M investment in women’s safety.
“We want to hear from women and girls about how they feel in our towns, suburbs and cities,” he said.
“As part of the program we’ll also be partnering with 10 local councils to pilot safety-boosting initiatives.
“We’re backing this program with a $30M commitment that could go towards better lighting, wayfinding, smart technology and landscaping to create safer connections through streets, public spaces and around transport hubs.”
While $12.3M has been earmarked for initiatives around Waitara, Stanmore and Redfern train stations, and in Parramatta Park and The Rocks, $10M has been set aside for pilot initiatives in 10 local government areas, including the Central Coast.
The Program will set a best practice framework for public space interventions for women, girls and gender diverse people’s safety.
A public education campaign focused on safety and reducing harassment will complement the infrastructure improvements to help educate and change behaviour.
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natalie Ward, said the Government is inviting women across the state to complete a short online survey to better understand their experiences around cities and towns.
“As we continue to design and plan for our growing cities, we need to hear from women to truly understand the experience through their eyes and to ensure the solutions we come up with, work for them,” Ward said.
The Government will release further details on how the remaining funding will be spent over the coming months.
Visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/safer-cities until February 8, 2023, to take the survey.
Source: Media release, Dec 19, 2022, NSW Government