Task Force Against Crimes on Seniors
Following the election, the Queensland Government announced a new Task Force to examine issues regarding crimes committed against Seniors.
Focusing on crimes such as break and enters, theft, fraud, bag snatching and other violence, as well as reducing the fear of crime, the Government will identify programs that aim to reduce crime against Seniors. Commissioner Atkinson said that while Seniors were not the most 'at risk' group in the community, crimes against the elderly often caused more fear. "We want to look at prevention and the way we investigate crime against Seniors".
Neighbourhood Watch has been identified as one of the programs that contribute to reducing crime and educating the community in ways to be more safe and secure. For this reason NHW will be one of the stakeholders of this Task Force. Using already existing successful programs as well as identifying innovative practices from other states, the government will develop strategies for the prevention and investigation of crimes against Seniors.
The inaugural meeting was held in March, so we look forward to feedback from this meeting which will determine direction and strategies in tackling crime against the elderly.
Last Updated: 09/12/2005