Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, has called on the new Minister for Police to urgently visit Geraldton and commit to tackling crime and youth justice as a top priority after a shocking start to 2025.
“2025 has already seen a horrific start for our community, with a number of incidents which have left families and businesses feeling unsettled and unsafe, and it’s time for the Police Minister to make addressing rising crime rates in Geraldton a priority,” Ms Warr said.
“Recent weeks have seen cars stolen and set alight, high-speed pursuits in the middle of town, small businesses including our taxi service suffering significant property damage, and a tragic sexual assault at the Geraldton Foreshore.
“I am horrified, saddened, and truly concerned about these incidents and we need urgent action from the Cook Labor Government to restore safety and order.”
Ms Warr confirmed she had written to the new Police Minister, Reece Whitby, as one of her first actions after being elected as Member for Geraldton to highlight the dire situation of crime and community safety in Geraldton.
“Last year saw the worst crime rates on record in Geraldton, with nearly 10,000 offences reports, a staggering 45 per cent increase since the WA Labor Government came to power in 2017,” Ms Warr said.
“Crimes against people have more than doubled with over 2,000 assaults recorded last year, while homes and businesses are under constant threat with over 2,200 stealing offences and 1,300 cases of property damage, no signs of improvement in the first quarter of 2025.”
Ms Warr urged the Police Minister to accept her invitation to visit Geraldton as a priority to meet with community leaders, business owners and local residents.
“This will be an important opportunity for Minister Whitby to hear their concerns and engage directly with those affected by this ongoing crime crisis.”
Ms Warr also stressed the urgent need for additional permanent police officers in Geraldton.
“While the Cook Labor Government has recently boasted of adding 738 new officers to the WA Police Force, this is the perfect time to allocate some of those resources to regional communities like Geraldton,” Ms Warr said.
“We need officers who are embedded in the local community, who understand the unique challenges we face, and who are committed to long-term safety.”
Ms Warr also praised Geraldton police officers, who were working hard to maintain community safety during trying times.
“Despite the increasing pressure, our local police continue to give their best to protect our community and we are incredibly grateful for their ongoing commitment,” she said.