State Member for Perth Eleni Evangel MLA last week chaired a key stakeholder workshop regarding various issues in Wellington Square which impact on the local as well as the wider community of the capital of Western Australia.
“The historical and cultural significance of Wellington Square is well respected and understood as a sacred gathering site for Aboriginal communities. There are, however, challenges in managing the various and ongoing issues, largely relating to homelessness and people sleeping and/or consuming alcohol in the park and surrounding areas,” said Ms Evangel.
“WA Police is determined to assist with Wellington Square related issues. We are currently investing many policing hours in the area, as community safety is our priority. There have been relatively few instances of behaviours requiring police intervention. There are numerous government and non-government agencies providing services to the people who are frequenting the park, and are concerned about an apparent lack of coordination of these services,” said Inspector Parkin on behalf of the WA Police.
The Wellington Square workshop provided an opportunity for all related parties to come together and collectively identify key issues and strategies to move forward.
In addition to the problems caused for residents in the area, there were several issues of concern for people in the park such as child safety, alcohol abuse and other health issues.
Ms Evangel said that it was clear from the meeting that one agency needed to be established as the ‘lead agency’, which would act as a parent body for all service providers in Wellington Square.
“This forum was a welcome and constructive discussion and the stakeholders involved have agreed to meet again. As the State Member for Perth I will be presenting these ideas to the relevant ministers,” said Ms Evangel.
