The McGowan Labor Government has announced a major $5 million boost to WA Police to crack down on crime and antisocial behaviour over the summer months and keep Western Australians safe.
The funding will ensure the highly successful Operation Heat Shield will run from December 2020 to the end of May 2021, with an additional 55,000 police hours deployed on the streets of the Perth central business district, and in other entertainment and shopping precincts, our suburbs and regional Western Australia.
Heat Shield will deliver high-visibility policing to tackle the rise in crime rates historically experienced over the warmer months when more people are out socialising.
This will include patrols at suburban centres, the Perth CBD and shopping, entertainment and transport hubs, and increased operations to target burglary, theft and family violence.
The first Operation Heat Shield, which ran during the same period last year, resulted in 2,500 arrests, 1,425 summonses and 5,882 charges.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“There is no greater deterrence to crime and antisocial behaviour than a visible police presence, and Operation Heat Shield will ensure our police are out in force this summer.
“My Government has made an unprecedented investment in WA Police resources across WA, to ensure the community is protected and our State remains safe and strong.
“We know that historically, crime increases during the summer months and this major police blitz will ensure there is a major police presence on the streets, not just in the CBD, but across Perth’s suburbs and regional WA as well.
“Supporting WA Police has been a key priority of my Government. Today’s announcement follows the significant boost to frontline police announced as part of the State Budget, with an additional 800 police officers recruited, on top of the 300 being delivered.”
As stated by Police Minister Michelle Roberts:
“To keep Western Australians safe and secure, the McGowan Government has increased police numbers and resources to record levels.
“We’re resourcing our police more than ever before to continue to drive down crime and antisocial behaviour.
“Thanks to all Western Australians’ commitment to beating COVID-19, we can be out enjoying time with family and friends.
“With this further $5 million funding, Western Australians can expect to see a strong police presence throughout WA in our entertainment precincts, shopping centres, and on our roads.”
Premier’s office – 6552 5000
