New ‘smart’ lighting will be installed in Picton’s Walton Street carpark as part of a half-million-dollar funding windfall to improve public safety in Hume.

Wollondilly Shire Council will receive $223,300 under Round 2 of the Federal Coalition’s $40 million Safer Communities Fund to install the lights.

Minister for Law Enforcement and Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said sensors in the street lights would allow them to shine more intensely with nearby movement.

“Since the car park was opened, residents have raised safety concerns about the lack of street lighting, especially in winter months, when returning to their vehicles after work,” Mr Taylor said.

“Smart street lights are a proven deterrent to anti-social behaviour. This funding will allow the lighting up of the carpark, Walton Street and Walton Lane.”

Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Alex Hawke, who has responsibility for the Safer Communities program, joined Mr Taylor, along with council, police and local business representatives, at a funding announcement on Friday.

“Three projects in Hume - in Picton, Narellan and Goulburn – will share funding totalling $565,000 in this current round of the program,” Assistant Minister Hawke said.

“This is a big priority for the Coalition – putting money into projects that make our streets, communities and our nation safer.”

Picton resident Kylie Greffenius owns a photography business near the carpark: “At this time of year it’s completely dark from 5pm. There have been reports of vandalism to cars and I’m sure I speak on behalf of many when I say that no-one likes walking to their car at night in absolute darkness. 

“Relating crime back to opportunity, and opportunity exists in dark parks and streets, is essential to fixing the problem. Picton’s businesses are grateful to Angus and the government for making this happen,” she said.

Wollondilly Mayor Judith Hannan said: “I am really pleased that we have been successful in obtaining significant financial support from the Federal Government that will allow us to deliver this important safety upgrade for our community.”

“This will also help us deliver the first component of our Smart Shire Strategy,” Cr Hannan said.

Council expects to complete the Walton Street lighting project in the coming financial year.

Safer Communities Round Two funding for Hume:

• Camden Council will receive up to $258,500 for lighting and associated safety works in the Narellan Urban Forest

• Wollondilly Shire Council will receive up to $223,300 for Walton Street public lighting

• Goulburn Mulwaree Council will receive up to $84,233 for lighting in Belmore Park

The Coalition Government has allocated a further $30 million in the 2018-19 Budget to Round 3 of the Safer Communities Fund, which is expected to open in coming weeks.

Information on how to apply for funding will be available at https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/safer-communities-fund