Survey to assess perceptions of safety at Memorial Square

Published on 03 August 2018

Survey to assess perceptions of safety at Memorial Square

Community members who live and work near Colac’s Memorial Square are being encouraged to take part in a survey designed to capture perceptions of safety in the area.

The survey is part of a broader project, which also includes lighting and CCTV upgrades in Memorial Square.

Colac Otway Shire Mayor Joe McCracken said the five minute survey would provide a snapshot of the community’s perception of safety in relation to crime and disorder.

“The survey will gather feedback on perceptions around graffiti, loitering, drinking, drug use, violence, stealing and issues like that,” he said.

“It will also garner views on the overall appearance of the Square, whether people feel safe in the day time or night time and whether their perceptions dissuade them from enjoying the area.”

Cr McCracken said the online survey was confidential and no personal identifying information would be collected.

“We want to get the clearest picture we can and anonymity will help us do that. For example, some of the questions ask whether respondents are aware of incidences of harassment, burglaries, assaults, thefts and things like that,” he said.

“Of course we always encourage any crime to be reported to police, but some people may not have taken that step and be prepared to mention it in this survey.”

Cr McCracken said the project was being undertaken in partnership with the State Government, via its Department of Justice, Community Crime Prevention Unit.

“We were successful in receiving a grant through the Public Safety Infrastructure Fund for the lighting and CCTV improvements and the community survey work will builds on that project,” he said.

“The upgrade consists of improved lighting to existing poles that will increase night visibility of the park and pathways, in addition to three new CCTV cameras to capture footage of areas not currently covered.

“Through the improvements, Council aims to deter potential offenders and increase and encourage continued use and enjoyment of Memorial Square.”

The survey closes on August 24 and can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ColacMemorialSquare