Shire of Mullewa CEO Tom Hartman has called for an increased level of coordination between Government agencies, following an altercation between two families last weekend.

 

The Shire has been committed to a Community Action Plan, aimed at delivering positive outcomes for social and emotional development in the community.

 

Mr Hartman reiterated that key initiatives within the plan required better coordination between service providers and agencies.

 

“The Action Plan outlines strategies, key responsibilities and funding requirements and the Shire hosts monthly meetings in order to facilitate interagency communication,” Mr Hartman said.

 

“Now is absolutely the time that these meetings need to focus on actual implementation and real, measurable outcomes.

 

“We have had a number of successful results from the plan, such as a Crime Prevention Expo at the District High School last year, ‘Our Place Our Home’ Arts Centre opening and town beautification with key community groups involved.

 

“It’s disheartening that one negative event can overshadow the positive steps the community is taking, but this is a timely reminder that the talking and collaboration that has begun, now needs to be taken to the next level, with action on the ground.

 

 “For example, one initiative in the Community Action Plan aims to reduce family feuding and calls for the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA) to provide support for appropriate mediation services to be accessed in Mullewa. This needs to happen as a matter of urgency.”

 

DIA will work in partnership with the Shire and the Aboriginal Justice Agreement Team, with the aim of accessing external funding sources, to access mediation.