Responding to Change: Foundations for an Integrated Regional Approach to Community Safety and Social Cohesion

Issues relating to crime and community safety attract much media and political attention in Australia. However, responses are usually seen to be reactive and punitive. Integrative and proactive collaborative initiatives, involving community members as key stakeholders, have the potential to facilitate more effective and efficient outcomes. This study, undertaken in collaboration with a regional community safety network, was prompted through community safety concerns associated with predicted population growth in the region, and the complex and interrelated nature of many safety issues. Research results suggest three key areas will need to be addressed.