An elected Dutton Coalition Government will commit $400,000 from a revitalised Safer Communities Fund (SCF) to upgrade floodlights at the iconic Malvern Cricket Ground in the electorate of Kooyong.
These grounds are utilised year-round, in summer by Malvern Cricket Club, and in winter by Malvern Lacrosse Club. The ground is also one of Stonnington’s dog-friendly ovals.
In a visit to the Malvern Cricket Ground today, the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Peter Dutton MP, said “This funding will make a real difference in Kooyong. I commend Amelia Hamer for advocating for this important funding announcement. It is clear from her door-knocking in the electorate that community safety is a real issue locally.
This election commitment will see new LED flood lights installed around the grounds in Malvern, improving safety and accessibility for locals and improving access to the sports grounds in the evenings.”
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, Senator James Paterson, said “The Coalition’s commitment to upgrading the lighting at the Malvern Cricket Ground is one of many steps we are taking across the country to ensure community spaces are safe and practical to use. This upgrade will allow these grounds to be used safely into the darker hours of the day, a welcome expansion as women’s cricket continues to grow in popularity. The Coalition is committed to making sure that all Australians have the opportunity to enjoy the sport and lifestyle they want in a safe and secure environment.”
The Liberal Party Candidate for Kooyong, Amelia Hamer, said “this is a key part of our local plan for Kooyong. I am committed to ensuring that our quality of life here is maintained and that all residents can enjoy our pristine green spaces when they want and safely. The historic Malvern Cricket Ground is a central greenspace for residents and sporting clubs within the Kooyong electorate. I am excited to support this upgrade after listening to the repeated calls of the Malvern community about the inadequacy of lighting around the ground and the safety concerns at this popular recreational space”.
The revitalised SCF will build on the fund established by the previous Coalition Government and provide grant funding to schools, councils and local organisations to support their efforts to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, and improve security around places of worship, and educational, sporting and community facilities.
The program will also provide support to community-based activities that improve social cohesion and participation.
A Dutton Coalition Government will get Australia back on track by tackling the crime and anti-social behaviour that threatens the safety of our communities.
13 January 2025