ACT COMMUNITY GROUPS RECEIVE SECURITY BOOST

Community organisations have a new opportunity to boost the safety and security of their facilities thanks to an ACT Government grants program worth $150,000, Attorney General, Simon Corbell, announced today.

"The 2010-11 Improving Safety and Security grants program is a great opportunity for local community groups who may be strapped for cash and struggle to upgrade their security systems," Mr Corbell said.

"Security infrastructure and equipment is not cheap, but is a crucial aspect to any organisation.

"The ACT Government is working hard with community groups to protect infrastructure and property from crime through grants programs like this one.

Community organisations can apply for one-off grants of up to $10,000 for projects such as the purchase of additional lighting like sensor and exterior lighting, alarm systems, security doors, window grills and fencing.

The grants program is a component of the Department of Disability, Housing and Community Services Community Support and Infrastructure Grants Program.

"It is unfortunate that community groups still fall victim to theft and property damage, but we know that crime has no bounds."

"I strongly encourage community groups to take advantage of this grants program to allow more of their money to be spent on their general operations and not preventing or fixing damage due to crime," Mr Corbell said.

Application packages, further information and details on public information sessions are available from the Department of Justice and Community Services website http://www.justice.act.gov.au/, email communitypolicy@act.gov.au or telephone

6205 0531 or 6205 1308 for further information.

Eligible community groups are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date of Monday 9 August 2010.

Media Contact:

Patrick Cronan 6205 0401 0432 758 224 patrick.cronan@act.gov.au