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Crime Prevention
November 29, 2024

Media Release

Neighbourhood Watch urges parents and children to be prepared "Travelling Safely” resource can help

For Immediate Release – November 29, 2024

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH URGES PARENTS AND CHILDREN TO BE PREPARED: “TRAVELLING SAFELY” RESOURCE CAN HELP

The recent attempted kidnappings in Tullamarine and Blackburn have been a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and personal safety. Neighbourhood Watch Victoria is encouraging parents and children to take proactive steps in preparing for potential dangers with its Travelling Safely in the Community resource.

When Neighbourhood Watch was established in the 1980s, many parents—often mums—were home during the day, creating a natural safety net for children and their local neighbourhoods. Today, with an increase in remote work post-COVID, communities have the opportunity to rebuild this culture of watchfulness and care.

“With so many working from home now, we can create safer communities by keeping an eye out for each other,” said Bambi Gordon, CEO of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria. “The safety of children depends not just on their knowledge but also on the vigilance of the community around them.”

The Travelling Safely in the Community program is an invaluable tool to help children and parents feel better equipped to navigate their local environments safely.

Key Objectives of the Travelling Safely Resource:

  • For Parents: Evaluate whether their child is ready to travel within the neighbourhood independently.
  • For Kids: Build safety knowledge, boost confidence, and empower them to trust their instincts. The program teaches children how to recognize unsafe situations and choose the best way to react.

Designed for flexibility, the resource allows families to learn at their own pace and return to topics as needed.

“Empowering kids with knowledge and confidence is one of the best ways we can protect them,” Gordon added. “It’s also a great way for parents to feel reassured about their child’s readiness for independence.”

The Travelling Safely in the Community resource is free and available online. For more information, visit nhw.com.au/kids/travelling-safely.

A Call to the Community: Look Out, Speak Up

Neighbourhood Watch Victoria urges all Victorians to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to Triple Zero. Together, we can help ensure safer streets and a safer future for all children.

For media inquiries, contact:
Bambi Gordon
0418 479 735
ceo@nhw.com.au

Additional Resources

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For all emergencies and immediate Police assistance
Call: 000
To report non-urgent crimes or events 24 hours a day
Call: 131 444
To report information about a crime contact Crime Stoppers on
1800 333 000

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Neighbourhood Watch Victoria acknowledges the 38 mobs, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live, and gather as employees and volunteers. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community and pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

At Neighbourhood Watch, we believe everyone has the right to feel safe and welcome. We are committed to ensuring diversity, inclusion and equity are embedded throughout our organisation – in the work we do, the services we deliver and among our staff, volunteers, and the communities we work with.

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