Sydney to get safety audit in response to Orlando shooting
A SAFETY audit will be conducted across the city of Sydney after a number of targeted assaults and the Orlando shooting.
Councillor Linda Scott instigated the call to action, putting forward a motion with a specific focus on the LGBTI community.
“The hate crimes that occurred this month in Orlando are a timely reminder o f the need to be vigilant about the safety and welfare of our LGBTIQ residents and businesses in the City of Sydney,” Scott said.
The audit will primarily focus on the adequacy of the city’s lighting.
“Improving lighting in areas experiencing high rates of assault at night has been shown to be an evidence based strategy in reducing incidences of night time assaults,” Scott said.
The Councillor singled out particular LGBTI-friendly areas for auditing, including Taylor Square, Oxford St, and Erskineville Rd.
She called upon Sydney to collaborate with relevant community groups.
“I look forward to working with the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby and all our LGBTIQ community to work towards an evidence based way of increasing the safety of our streets,” Scott said.
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has reported 3,121 assaults in Sydney between April 2015 and March 2016.
There have been a number of high profile cases of LGBTI assaults this year as well.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe and free to walk our city’s streets and enjoy our city’s night life without fear of abuse or for their physical safety,” Scott said.
