October marked Greater Dandenong’s first Community Safety Month, delivered through successful partnerships between the Community Safety Team and key stakeholders. The initiative received strong community support and will continue as an annual awareness event.
Coffee with a Cop – Thursday 2 October
The Coffee with a Cop session at Degani’s Café launched Community Safety Month, connecting Victoria Police, Neighbourhood Watch, and Council with over 70 community members. The event was well received, with more sessions planned for November.
- Neighbourhood Watch Forum: Wednesday 26 November, 7.30pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre (18–34 Buckley St, Noble Park)
- Next Coffee with a Cop: Thursday 27 November, 11am–12pm at Parkmore Shopping Centre
Building Social Cohesion – Tuesday 7 October
The Lunchbox Session featured the Community Connections Network presenting the Neighbourhood Safe Spaces Project to 41 Council staff, including managers from Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres and Dr David McGinnis from the University of Melbourne. The session encouraged cross-collaboration and council staff expressed interest in holding similar sessions regularly.
Community Safety Story Time – Thursday 9 October
The Community Safety Team partnered with Springvale and Dandenong Libraries to host themed Story Time sessions, engaging 80 children and parents. Victoria Police joined at Springvale Library, fostering positive connections and reinforcing the value of collaboration.
Seniors Expo – Friday 10 October
The Community Safety Team and Victoria Police hosted a stall at the Seniors Expo, engaging local seniors in safety conversations and sharing resources from Neighbourhood Watch. The event helped strengthen connections with older residents and provided practical safety tips.
Women’s Self Defence Class – Wednesday 22 October
The Community Safety Team concluded Community Safety Month with a booked-out Women’s Self-Defence Class led by Sensei Gary, teaching practical skills to women of all ages. Attendees expressed strong interest in future sessions through Council programs.
For future collaborations, please reach out to the Community Safety Team.
For further information contact Madalene Cursio, Community Safety Program Officer via email Madalene.Cursio@cgd.vic.gov.au.