Our community safety concerns are real and immediate. Parents worry about their teenagers walking home at night, elderly residents feel vulnerable in their homes, and local businesses face increasing theft and vandalism. Meanwhile, police response times in some parts of our electorate have stretched to over 30 minutes.

As CEO of the Mornington Community Support Centre, I've supported families impacted by youth crime, consoled elderly victims afraid to leave their homes, and worked with local police who do their best with limited resources. I've witnessed how the cycle of disadvantage leads vulnerable young people into crime when they lack proper support and opportunities.

I'll push for common-sense fixes that make our community safer, including: 

• Increased police resources deployed to the Peninsula, not just Melbourne
• Expanded youth intervention programs that prevent crime before it happens 
• Better street lighting and security infrastructure in high-risk areas. 

I'll also advocate for mental health services that address the root causes of crime, along with schemes that reduce reoffending while supporting victims.

Community safety isn't about political point-scoring – it's about implementing evidence-based strategies that work. As your Independent, I'll bring together law enforcement, community leaders, and residents to develop solutions that keep us safe.