Labor government faces scrutiny over $20 million CCTV grant fund
The Australian Labor government is facing scrutiny over its $20 million “Strengthening Community Safety” program. The invite-only fund, designed to install CCTV networks and safety features, has been accused by the Coalition of being used to target specific electorates for political advantage.
Data indicates that of the 20 upgrades funded by the program, 17 benefited seats held by Labor prior to the May 2025 election. Other allocations included $1.5 million for projects in the Dickson electorate and $600,000 for marginal Coalition seats in Melbourne.
The Greens have successfully secured a Senate inquiry into the broader $560 million fund, which is expected to deliver its report by mid-November.
Entities
Anthony Albanese · Coalition · Labor Party · Peter Dutton · The Greens
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Coalition accused the Labor government of using grant programs to target specific electorates. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] A $1.5 million upgrade was allocated to projects in the Dickson electorate. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Strengthening Community Safety program utilized an invite-only $20 million fund for CCTV and safety upgrades. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] Of the 20 upgrades funded by the program, 17 benefited seats held by Labor prior to the May 2025 election. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Greens secured a Senate inquiry into the $560 million fund. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Senate inquiry is expected to report back by mid-November. www.smh.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.theage.com.au