The Carroll Labor Government has refused to guarantee opening hours at police stations across the Euroa electorate, leaving communities like Kilmore and Benalla in the dark about the future of their local police.
Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland asked the Police Minister whether any stations in her electorate faced reduced hours or closure. In a response dated 26 October, the Police Minister refused to rule it out, saying deployment was “a matter for the Chief Commissioner”.
“That’s a cop-out,” Ms Cleeland said.
“After more than a decade in government, Labor can’t even promise our local stations will keep their doors open.
“Regional communities shouldn’t have to wonder whether help will be there when they need it.
“People in country towns are already seeing offenders back on the streets within hours.
“Fewer police and weak bail laws are a dangerous combination.”
A Liberal and Nationals Government would recruit 3,000 additional police, reopen police stations closed under Labor and strengthen bail laws so repeat offenders face real consequences.
“Our plan is simple: more police on the beat, local stations open and tougher bail laws to keep dangerous offenders off our streets,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Regional Victorians pay the same taxes as everyone else. They deserve the same protection.”
Question and Answer Question 3846 – Question on Notice (Questions on Notice) – Parliament of Victoria
