Described as 'The Oasis of Central Australia', the remote town of Alice Springs is perhaps best known for being the gateway to the iconic landmark Uluru.

However, a rising tide of youth crime has forced businesses, including the local Coles supermarket, to transform into fortresses after dark.

This drastic measure, which includes full roll-down security screens on all windows, is a response to the increasing incidents of vandalism and break-ins.

The situation has become so dire that locals have started referring to their city as the 'Roller Shutter City'.

The once peaceful town has seen a surge in crime, with stolen cars, robberies, violent assaults, vandalism, and gangs of youths roaming the streets becoming almost nightly occurrences.

Coles supermarket installed roller shutters in their stores amid a surging crime rate in Alice Springs. Image: Facebook

A local group, Action for Alice, has been lobbying for change. Their efforts gained national attention last summer, leading to a visit by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

However, despite promises of action, locals claim the situation has only worsened.

Stephen Halleron from Evolve Electrical, the company responsible for installing the security screens at Coles, shared a video of the screens in action on social media, highlighting the severity of the situation.

‘At the moment, with the increasing crime rate, we will see more and more of these shutters required in residential premises and commercial properties over the next few years,’ Mr Halleron said.

‘The bulk of our work comes from the increased crime [and demand for] roller shutters, roller gates, security lights and so on.’

‘The town is still hurting…but nothing gets reported anymore. Nothing gets done.’

Despite the media attention and promises of assistance from the government, locals feel abandoned.

Halleron describes Alice Springs as a 'failed system', with no significant improvements in sight.

Coles, in a statement, confirmed the installation of roller shutters was in line with similar measures taken by many local businesses.

The supermarket chain is known to have a range of security measures in place, including CCTV and electronic article surveillance (EAS) and electronic gate systems (EGS) to reduce theft.

The escalating crime situation has had a devastating impact on the local economy. Tourism has taken a hit, and attracting staff to the Red Centre has become increasingly difficult.

Halleron warns that action needs to be taken soon, as there's a limit to how much people can endure before the situation explodes.

The comments on the video of the Coles security screens reflect the frustration and anger of the locals. Many express sadness at the state of their once 'nice and friendly' town, with one user even comparing the security measures to those of a jail.

‘There might be a bit of ongoing work there, I would bet,’ one commenter said.

‘At least up until…we do actually find a real government, who really are prepared to do the things they tell us they are going to do.’

Another said: ‘So sad, especially when the business has to cover the cost for no fault of their own! The price of being in business in this town!’

In response to the outcry, Evolve Electrical commented that Alice Springs is still a great town, but something needs to be done.

The Northern Territory Police and Government were approached for comment but did not respond. However, in August, Acting Commander James Gray-Spence promised that this summer would be 'markedly different' due to Operation Drina, a high-visibility police operation aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour.

Despite these assurances, many locals remain sceptical. They have seen promises made and broken before and are waiting to see if this time will be any different.

You can watch Evolve Electrical’s full video below:

​

Understanding the Root Causes of Youth Crime in Alice Springs

While the situation in Alice Springs is alarming, it's essential to understand the root causes of this youth crime epidemic.

Prime Minister Albanese, during his visit, acknowledged that the issue is not just about alcohol but also about employment, service delivery, and having staff on the ground.

Youth crime is often a symptom of deeper societal issues. In many cases, young people who engage in criminal behaviour come from backgrounds of disadvantage, with limited access to quality education and employment opportunities. They may also be dealing with complex issues at home, such as domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect.

Addressing youth crime, therefore, requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond policing and punishment. It involves investing in education, creating job opportunities, providing social services, and addressing issues of poverty and inequality.

Community-based programs that engage young people, provide them with positive role models, and give them a sense of purpose can also play a crucial role in preventing youth crime. Such programs can offer sports, arts, mentoring, and leadership opportunities, helping young people develop skills, build self-esteem, and envision a positive future for themselves.

While the situation in Alice Springs is undoubtedly challenging, it's important to remember that it's not insurmountable. With the right strategies and investments, it's possible to turn things around and create a safer, more prosperous community for all residents.

Key Takeaways

• Coles in downtown Alice Springs has installed full roll-down security screens on its windows in response to ongoing youth crime and vandalism.
• The increased security measures reflect the town's struggle with a crime epidemic that includes stolen cars, robberies, and gangs roaming the streets.
• Community group Action for Alice has been lobbying for change, and while the Prime Minister visited and acknowledged the problem, locals feel that promises of government assistance and a crackdown by authorities have been broken.
• Frustrated locals cite the impact of crime on tourism and the challenge of attracting staff to the area, indicating an urgent need for effective solutions as the situation continues to affect business and community life.

What are your thoughts on the situation in Alice Springs? Have you experienced similar issues in your community? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

 

[Mikeyboy2012]

Whence I worked at TAFE in Redfern, Sydney (way back in the day) all the shops had roller doors for the same reason.

 

[IAN3005]

Getting more like the USA every day.....

 

[Ronloby]

The problem is - "A slap on the wrist and don't do it again" without any follow-up. This happens all around Australia and urgent action needs to be taken to help young people change their way of life.

 

[June E]

Getting more like the USA every day.....

Are you surprised that we are getting more like the USA lately ? We seem to be following them everywhere. Qld Kmart selling Christmas knitted jumpers more and more stuff on Facebook is aimed at the USA and the winter when we in the midst of a heatwave! The Gov are over there half the time, etc etc

 

[Luckyus]

Are you surprised that we are getting more like the USA lately ? We seem to be following them everywhere. Qld Kmart selling Christmas knitted jumpers more and more stuff on Facebook is aimed at the USA and the winter when we in the midst of a heatwave! The Gov are over there half the time, etc etc

Described as 'The Oasis of Central Australia', the remote town of Alice Springs is perhaps best known for being the gateway to the iconic landmark Uluru.

However, a rising tide of youth crime has forced businesses, including the local Coles supermarket, to transform into fortresses after dark.

This drastic measure, which includes full roll-down security screens on all windows, is a response to the increasing incidents of vandalism and break-ins.

The situation has become so dire that locals have started referring to their city as the 'Roller Shutter City'.

The once peaceful town has seen a surge in crime, with stolen cars, robberies, violent assaults, vandalism, and gangs of youths roaming the streets becoming almost nightly occurrences.

View attachment 37912

Coles supermarket installed roller shutters in their stores amid a surging crime rate in Alice Springs. Image: Facebook

A local group, Action for Alice, has been lobbying for change. Their efforts gained national attention last summer, leading to a visit by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

However, despite promises of action, locals claim the situation has only worsened.

Stephen Halleron from Evolve Electrical, the company responsible for installing the security screens at Coles, shared a video of the screens in action on social media, highlighting the severity of the situation.

‘At the moment, with the increasing crime rate, we will see more and more of these shutters required in residential premises and commercial properties over the next few years,’ Mr Halleron said.

‘The bulk of our work comes from the increased crime [and demand for] roller shutters, roller gates, security lights and so on.’

‘The town is still hurting…but nothing gets reported anymore. Nothing gets done.’

Despite the media attention and promises of assistance from the government, locals feel abandoned.

Halleron describes Alice Springs as a 'failed system', with no significant improvements in sight.

Coles, in a statement, confirmed the installation of roller shutters was in line with similar measures taken by many local businesses.

The supermarket chain is known to have a range of security measures in place, including CCTV and electronic article surveillance (EAS) and electronic gate systems (EGS) to reduce theft.

The escalating crime situation has had a devastating impact on the local economy. Tourism has taken a hit, and attracting staff to the Red Centre has become increasingly difficult.

Halleron warns that action needs to be taken soon, as there's a limit to how much people can endure before the situation explodes.

The comments on the video of the Coles security screens reflect the frustration and anger of the locals. Many express sadness at the state of their once 'nice and friendly' town, with one user even comparing the security measures to those of a jail.

‘There might be a bit of ongoing work there, I would bet,’ one commenter said.

‘At least up until…we do actually find a real government, who really are prepared to do the things they tell us they are going to do.’

Another said: ‘So sad, especially when the business has to cover the cost for no fault of their own! The price of being in business in this town!’

In response to the outcry, Evolve Electrical commented that Alice Springs is still a great town, but something needs to be done.

The Northern Territory Police and Government were approached for comment but did not respond. However, in August, Acting Commander James Gray-Spence promised that this summer would be 'markedly different' due to Operation Drina, a high-visibility police operation aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour.

Despite these assurances, many locals remain sceptical. They have seen promises made and broken before and are waiting to see if this time will be any different.

You can watch Evolve Electrical’s full video below:

​

Understanding the Root Causes of Youth Crime in Alice Springs

While the situation in Alice Springs is alarming, it's essential to understand the root causes of this youth crime epidemic.

Prime Minister Albanese, during his visit, acknowledged that the issue is not just about alcohol but also about employment, service delivery, and having staff on the ground.

Youth crime is often a symptom of deeper societal issues. In many cases, young people who engage in criminal behaviour come from backgrounds of disadvantage, with limited access to quality education and employment opportunities. They may also be dealing with complex issues at home, such as domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect.

Addressing youth crime, therefore, requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond policing and punishment. It involves investing in education, creating job opportunities, providing social services, and addressing issues of poverty and inequality.

Community-based programs that engage young people, provide them with positive role models, and give them a sense of purpose can also play a crucial role in preventing youth crime. Such programs can offer sports, arts, mentoring, and leadership opportunities, helping young people develop skills, build self-esteem, and envision a positive future for themselves.

While the situation in Alice Springs is undoubtedly challenging, it's important to remember that it's not insurmountable. With the right strategies and investments, it's possible to turn things around and create a safer, more prosperous community for all residents.

Key Takeaways

• Coles in downtown Alice Springs has installed full roll-down security screens on its windows in response to ongoing youth crime and vandalism.
• The increased security measures reflect the town's struggle with a crime epidemic that includes stolen cars, robberies, and gangs roaming the streets.
• Community group Action for Alice has been lobbying for change, and while the Prime Minister visited and acknowledged the problem, locals feel that promises of government assistance and a crackdown by authorities have been broken.
• Frustrated locals cite the impact of crime on tourism and the challenge of attracting staff to the area, indicating an urgent need for effective solutions as the situation continues to affect business and community life.

What are your thoughts on the situation in Alice Springs? Have you experienced similar issues in your community? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Back in the late fifties in Victoria there used to be a lot of trouble with a social group called the Bodgies, well the old bill came up with a novel way of dealing with them? They formed a group of coppers and called themselves the Bodgie squad and they didn't mess around?. ( When they kicked your arse, it stayed kicked)

 

[Annna]

Australia should look to other systems that work and adopt/adapt those for use here.

Please see the below text:

'Crime Rate of 0%
Dubai's commitment to Islamic law has resulted in an extremely low crime rate, as it reports virtually no criminal activity. This applies to both the local and foreign populations, as people understand the severe consequences of any unlawful behavior. The city's strict adherence to these laws helps maintain a reputation for safety and order, making Dubai a place where people are well aware that breaking the law comes with serious repercussions'.

 

[Knell]

Australia should look to other systems that work and adopt/adapt those for use here.

Please see the below text:

'Crime Rate of 0%
Dubai's commitment to Islamic law has resulted in an extremely low crime rate, as it reports virtually no criminal activity. This applies to both the local and foreign populations, as people understand the severe consequences of any unlawful behavior. The city's strict adherence to these laws helps maintain a reputation for safety and order, making Dubai a place where people are well aware that breaking the law comes with serious repercussions'.

Are you serious? barbaric!

 

[Knell]

Back in the late fifties in Victoria there used to be a lot of trouble with a social group called the Bodgies, well the old bill came up with a novel way of dealing with them? They formed a group of coppers and called themselves the Bodgie squad and they didn't mess around?. ( When they kicked your arse, it stayed kicked)

Ah! Bodgies and Widgies lol

 

[Knell]

No idea what the solution is. A big problem though. Are they bored?

 

[Luckyus]

Australia should look to other systems that work and adopt/adapt those for use here.

Please see the below text:

'Crime Rate of 0%
Dubai's commitment to Islamic law has resulted in an extremely low crime rate, as it reports virtually no criminal activity. This applies to both the local and foreign populations, as people understand the severe consequences of any unlawful behavior. The city's strict adherence to these laws helps maintain a reputation for safety and order, making Dubai a place where people are well aware that breaking the law comes with serious repercussions'.

Great but how many one handed people are walking around Dubai? or for that matter none. No guessing what the penalty for the third is?.

 

[Luckyus]

Ah! Bodgies and Widgies lol

I purposely left the girls out.

 

[Annna]

Are you serious? barbaric!

"No criminal activity".

Think about it.

It is a system that works.

No one breaks the law.

Everyone can walk the streets safely.

No muggings

No rapes.

No indecent assaults.



To each his own.

 

[Knell]

Perhaps safe youth camps, run by indigenous mentors to include education like Ranger Programmes, horticultural training programmes, health services, no access to harmful substances, respect and self respect programmes. They need to understand the core issues for these children and provide support services. Jail does not solve the issues for kids and the costs to keep them in jail is wasted.

 

[RieTreesSilver]

I apologize in advance if I offend anyone with my responses, but this ongoing and escalating behavior is what drove my Husband I out of the Territory to look for better opportunities for our son.

Having lived in the NT for nearly 25 years in both Darwin and remote communities these issues in Alice are nothing new and they are not only in Alice Spring. 30 Years ago when I went to the Masters Games in 96 we were told in no uncertain terms that female members of our teams were not to walk around by themselves, and after dark we were only to travel as a group and preferably by taxi for OUR OWN SAFETY. The same behaviours have become increasingly frequent in Katherine, Darwin and Kununurra in Northern WA. The remaining business have had to adopt a siege mentality as Insurance cost go thru the roof, that's if they CAN get insurance. Many times the damage costs done to a business far outweigh any stolen property taken.

When the current youths causing a lot of the trouble have been given so many chances by the courts and have no respect for any authority figure Black, or White and hold a lot of the American gangstas up as something to aspire to, how do you get through that they are only destroying themselves and their ancient heritage. Given that this attitude has prevailed for multiple generations and only gotten worse the chances of any improvement without strong responses. AND the bleeding hearts who have never experienced it on an ongoing basis or had their livelihood destroyed thru no fault or action of their own will make so much noise about how wrong old fashioned disciple is. These same people VERY RARELY come up with a constructive workable option.

There have been and still are lot of really hard working people who are trying to help turn things around but cannot get past the agro and hard done by, chip on my shoulder attitude that is reinforced by "I want that NOW". They are acting on a common shortfall by many younger people, "I know my rights" what they overlook, forget or never understood was with Rights comes Responsibility, for my actions, to my Family (Clan) and the larger Community. Just look at the ages of some of the recent car thieves, crashing or trashing them just for fun. - Very few repercussions, absolved of all responsibility for destroying someone else's property and any hardship this may cause.

As regards Education, there are public schools in Metro and country areas of NSW, Victoria, SA, South Western WA who have NEVER seen the resources poured into schools where attendance of 15-25% is seen as Great. You cannot teach students who do not attend school. You cannot teach a community who as a whole do not value education, unless it is to learn how to screw the "System" from both sides.

As for health care 10 years ago the 80/20 rule applied to the NT Health Budget 80 percent spent on 20% of the population. So many of theses patients are repeat visitors to the hospitals. Yes chronic ill health in the form of diabetes, heart and kidney disease is rampant within this part of the NT community. While inroads have been made into the treatment there has to bee some responsibility on the part of the patient.

To the Nurses, Police, Correctional Officers and Support workers who day in and day out try to make a difference, I salute you. I'll continue to keep you and your families in my prayers, because there is a price to pay for in this ongoing WAR. And it is seen as a war of attitudes that have been ingrained for too many years.

Thank you if you have read this far, I'm stepping down off my soap box Ciao