A $25,000 Andrews Labor Government grant will help fight graffiti vandalism and increase community confidence and safety in Warrnambool.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP today announced the Warrnambool City Council has been awarded the funding in the latest round of the Andrews Labor Government’s Graffiti Prevention Grants.
The grants provide up to $25,000 for councils who team up with community groups, police, schools and local businesses to deliver anti-graffiti projects.
Warrnambool City Council will use the grant to help fund the Shared Futures project.
The Shared Futures project involves the development of large murals in various graffiti hotspots in Warrnambool’s CBD involving young indigenous men and older residents of the area to prevent graffiti, improve skills and create social connections through urban art.
Graffiti vandalism is costly for communities and property owners to remove and prevent, and affects the appearance of neighbourhoods and perceptions of safety.
Since July 2015, the government has allocated $1.36 million towards 72 anti-graffiti projects across Victoria.
The grants are part of the government’s Community Crime Prevention Program, which helps promote community safety and prevent crime across the state.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“I would like to congratulate the Warrnambool City Council for taking a proactive approach to help prevent illegal tagging and vandalism.”
“The Shared Futures project is an important project for the Warrnambool community, and will help restore community pride and confidence in the area.”
“What is a cheap thrill for vandals can end up costing businesses, councils and property owners thousands of dollars to remove.”
“By teaching young children about the impacts illegal graffiti has in their own communities and by investing in murals, green walls and other projects, we can tackle graffiti at a local level.”