Territory business owners were hoping that Labor’s recent budget would see a focus on community safety measures, sadly crime barely rated a mention.
Now in another blow Labor has slashed funds from the Biz Secure and the victims of crime funding claimable by Territory businesses.
Shadow Minister for Small Business Marie-Clare Boothby couldn’t believe it when she saw the budget papers show a reduction of almost $250,000 to these funds.
“Every day I speak with business owners who are under attack from criminals causing reckless and senseless destruction to their businesses. Yet we have a Government who refuses to put in place the laws and consequences to prevent the crime, and now cuts the funding for those who are victims of crime.”
“Commercial breaks-ins across the Territory are up 131% in the last year alone under Labor yet Eva Lawless’ budget has reduced the avenues to help businesses struggling to recoup the costs caused by criminals.”
“On Friday in Katherine alone we saw 15 break-ins, this morning some of those have been victimised again in a matter of days. How can Labor refuse to take action when businesses are being targeted multiple times over a weekend?”
“With the rising energy costs, insurance prices and reduction in economic activity our business community are really doing it tough.”
“Unlike Labor, the CLP know that you cannot have a strong economy with crime out of control which is why our plan focuses on providing for a Safer, Stronger Territory.”
ENDS