Noosa Council is spearheading an effort to potentially establish a Safe Night Precinct in the Noosa Heads precinct.
Council is working with State Government agencies to clarify the process and to identify what steps are required to introduce such an initiative.
Mayor Clare Stewart said there is wider business and community interest.
“We have had preliminary discussions with Hastings Street Association, other business leaders as well as senior police, who fully support progressing the idea,” she said.
Cr Stewart has also written to the Police Minister Mark Ryan seeking his support to bolster police numbers during peak holiday periods.
Safe Night Precincts were created by the Queensland Government several years ago to reduce late night drug and alcohol-related violence in key entertainment areas.
“Noosa remains a safe and family-friendly shire and we’re all keen to ensure that continues to be the case,” Cr Stewart said.
“This type of precinct would assist our local police who already have a number of strategies in place to target anti-social behaviour,” Cr Stewart said.
Anton Mogg, Chair of the Noosa Liquor Accord said the move had unanimous support from licensed venues.
“At our recent meeting, all members strongly supported the concept of a Safe Night Precinct in Noosa, which can only benefit the shire,” he said.
Council officers are waiting on State Government advice to ascertain whether there is a process to apply for a Safe Night Precinct.
“Ultimately it’s up to the Queensland Government to make the final call,” the Mayor said.
“We have also kept Noosa MP Sandy Bolton up to date with the council initiative.”
Hastings Street Association President Emma Hull fully endorsed any measures to bolster safety.
“Initiatives that can assist police in keeping Noosa safe are encouraged and our members fully support Council’s endeavours in establishing a Safe
Night Precinct,” Ms Hull said.
There are 15 Safe Night Precincts in Queensland, including one on the Sunshine Coast, taking in Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Caloundra.
