Mr Gillespie said the introduction of a program to rollout CCTV cameras, improved lighting and other crime prevention measures in local communities under the next Federal Coalition Government would see a resultant improvement in crime prevention.

Mr Gillespie, said he had spoken to a number of local people who supported the initiative and he will be encouraging Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Greater Taree City Council and local business owners to take up the assistance when the program is implemented under the next Coalition Government.

 "Residents have a right to feel safe and secure in their homes and neighbourhoods. Whether people are going about their business, shopping, out to dinner with friends or enjoying a night out, CCTV cameras provide an extra layer of security to help protect them and their property from crime,” Mr Gillespie said.

“The presence of CCTV cameras also causes would be criminals to think before they act, helping to stop crime before it occurs, as the chance of them getting caught on camera is high.

“Under the plan, local residents, shop owners and chambers of commerce, State and Local Governments will be able to have a say in identifying local projects to make our streets safer."

“The former Coalition Government offered an effective and popular grants program to tackle local crime and it was disappointing that the Labor government scrapped it. Labor has also cut $400 million from the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Crime Commission and Customs,” Mr Gillespie said.

“The best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it happening. Crime prevention helps to stop people from suffering injury and damage to their property, reducing costs in the justice system, and strengthens communities.

"The Liberal and National Parties crime prevention grants program will start in the first year of a Coalition Government and would be rolled out in consultation with local councils and police," Mr Gillespie said.