Let’s recognise the outstanding programs making waves in our local communities to prevent crime and violence
Nominations are now open for the 2024 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPA).
The awards, coordinated by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC), recognise and reward good practice in the prevention or reduction of violence and other types of crime in Australia.
The AIC is looking for projects of all sizes, including smaller initiatives involving local community groups, that were fully operational before 1 February 2023. Projects can be led by government or non-government agencies, or by individuals. They may address specific groups such as rural and remote communities, women and children, youth, migrant, ethnic or Indigenous communities, or specific problems such as alcohol-related violence.
AIC Deputy Director Dr Rick Brown said that the awards play a vital role in highlighting effective community-based initiatives and assisting governments to develop practical projects that prevent crime and violence before it occurs.
“For more than 30 years, the ACVPA have encouraged the implementation and sustainability of innovative and efficient crime prevention programs. Projects that are contributing a valuable service to your communities and the broader Australian public deserve to be recognised,” he said.
In 2023, we recognised nine programs for their exceptional contributions to crime and violence prevention in Australia. This included our gold community winner Maranguka Youth Support Model – a First Nations led self-determination, cultural governance and cross-sector commitment to reducing crime and violence and improving outcomes for the community of Bourke, NSW. It focuses on tackling the underlying causes of crime through community development initiatives.
“In partnership with Just Reinvest NSW and guided by the Bourke Tribal Council, this collaborative initiative has not only significantly reduced youth crime and the associated response costs but improved the outcomes for all participants. The increased education programs and school completion rates are outstanding.
“If you are involved in a project that is working towards a safer community or know of a worthy local program that has reduced crime or violence, I strongly encourage you to nominate,” Dr Brown said.
The ACVPA are a joint initiative of the Australian, state and territory governments. Nominations close 19 April 2024. To apply or nominate a deserving project, please visit the AIC website.
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