MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs recently raised member concerns with Kate Worden, the Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence and the Minister for Territory Families.

Joined by a representative from the Northern Territory Police and MTA NT members, it was pleasing to hear the Minister’s views and support for members.

MTA members detailed how theft has significantly increased in the past twelve months. They directly shared their stories and received an update from Police on their ongoing investigations and patrolling.

Although we acknowledge that resolving issues related to crime and antisocial behaviour may not be a simple or immediate process, it is important to initiate action and begin making progress towards a resolution. More importantly still, local businesses need to be heard as part of this process as well as adequately assisted if they have been a victim of theft or vandalism.

Although we recognise that the underlying causes of these difficulties are multifaceted, it is imperative that the government and business community collaborate and take joint action in order to achieve effective solutions.

Other topics of discussion included sentencing reform to ensure offenders are adequately punished, plus rising business insurance premiums.

Territorians work hard to make a livelihood and putting up with crime is an unacceptable cost to doing business.