Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to honour a team of Newcastle police officers who were recognised last week at the annual Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards here in Parliament House. I wish to congratulate the Restore Hamilton South team from Newcastle City Local Area Command for winning the silver award and thank them on behalf of the Newcastle community for their dedication and commitment.

The team won this prestigious award for the excellent outcomes achieved in partnership with the Hamilton South housing estate community, which saw local crime rates drop by as much as 15 per cent. Hamilton South comprises 20 per cent of the city's public housing and has a complex mix of social and economic challenges. However, not only has crime reduced, the project is also helping to address other issues facing the community like mental health, substance abuse and family violence.

The Restoring Hamilton South team went above and beyond to develop a deep understanding of the community and build trust alongside a multifaceted response. Police now lead monthly meetings with senior representatives from the New South Wales departments of housing, Family and Community Services, probation and parole and Education so the best targeted resources not only reduce crime, but also help residents address multiple challenges that they may be facing.

Congratulations to John Gralton, Steven Laksa, Dean Olsen, Mark Bird and Jeff Milton, who accepted the award on behalf of everyone who has worked in the Newcastle LAC for the past two years. This is an incredible achievement and a great model of strategic coordination and effective community engagement by Newcastle police officers.