Tuesday, 13 May 2025

Footscray community safety

Katie HALL (Footscray) (13:09): I will always fight for the people in my electorate – for their education, their health care and their services. Because I have a seat at the table as the proud Labor member for Footscray in the Allan Labor government, I get the opportunity to fight meaningfully for these outcomes – funding for co-health outreach, for urgent care clinics, for schools, for hospitals, for art and culture and for all the things my community values. I am proud to have delivered these things, but there is always more to do.

It is no secret that there are challenges for a small group of people in Footscray’s CBD. Following the tragic death of Abdifatah Ahmed, I sought a meeting with the Premier to discuss these complex challenges. I have been working closely with our Premier; local council; the Salvos, who I believe could undertake their highly effective social work locally; Victoria Police; and community organisations to work towards addressing the challenges that remain. Everyone has a right to feel safe – on the street, in their home or anywhere else. My message to my constituents is that I hear you and I am listening, and I will continue to make sure that your voices are heard. This is what I will continue to work towards: the safety, security and dignity of everyone who calls Footscray home or needs help.