WE NEED YOUR SIGNATURE TO SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS IN SECURING BACKING FROM PARLIAMENT AND THE LOCAL COUNCIL TO HELP REDUCE CRIME, DRUG USE, AND ALCOHOL-RELATED ISSUES IN THE PAKENHAM MAIN STREET AREA.

We, the undersigned residents, business owners, and concerned community members, urgently call for immediate action to address the escalating crime and violence in the Pakenham Main Street and John Street areas. Over recent months, our community has faced an alarming increase in break-ins, assaults, vandalism, and gang activity, with crime levels now at their worst in over 15 years.

Businesses in the area are being targeted nightly, with windows smashed, property stolen, and individuals openly committing crimes with little to no consequence. Gangs are regularly seen loitering around Pakenham Marketplace and the train station, causing distress and fear among locals. The ongoing violence and lawlessness are not only endangering the safety of residents and business owners but are also deterring potential investment and customers from the area, leading to financial strain on local businesses.

The streets have become run down and uncleaned, with graffiti everywhere. Youths are hanging out around the shops and street areas, making locals feel unsafe and causing businesses to suffer. The area has now gained a negative reputation, and change is needed now. It is also very concerning that parliamentary members have offices in this area, yet nothing is happening to address these issues. Additionally, local playgrounds for children are heavily affected, further exacerbating community concerns.

In recent weeks, there have been reports of two separate shootings in the area. This is absolutely disgusting and unacceptable in a public space. The community should not have to live in fear of such extreme violence occurring in their neighbourhoods.

Local police are stretched beyond capacity, responding to daily call-outs but stating their hands are tied without greater intervention from local government and higher authorities. One particular group of individuals has repeatedly committed break-ins and property damage, with clear evidence available, yet remains free to continue their actions. This is unacceptable, and stronger enforcement, security measures, and deterrents must be put in place immediately.

We demand that the Cardinia Shire Council and local parliament representatives take decisive action to clean up the streets of Pakenham and restore safety and security to the community. Immediate measures must include:

1. Increased police presence and patrols in high-crime areas, particularly around Main Street, John Street, Pakenham Marketplace, and the train station.
2. Implementation of CCTV surveillance in crime hotspots, with real-time monitoring and response capabilities.
3. Tougher consequences and enforcement against repeat offenders to prevent further damage to businesses and the community.
4. Stronger collaboration between law enforcement, council, and local businesses to develop long-term crime prevention strategies.
5. Additional funding and resources allocated to address public safety concerns and deter criminal activity.

Locals and business owners in the area deserve better. We are paying inflated rates and fees without receiving the necessary action to protect our community. Our concerns have been ignored for too long, and we demand change now.

Our community deserves better. We will not stand by while crime continues to spiral out of control, putting lives and livelihoods at risk. We call on you to take immediate and decisive action to protect our community, support local businesses, and restore safety to the streets of Pakenham.

Please acknowledge receipt of this petition and provide a clear outline of the steps that will be taken to address these concerns. We look forward to your prompt response and urgent action on this matter.

Sincerely,

The Cardinia local businesses, Cardinia local residents and Cardinia Ratepayers