Focus on people, place and partnerships for Footscray
Published on 18 February 2026
A six-month Footscray CBD trial, which included joint patrols between private security and Local Laws officers to support staff safety, will transition to a stronger daily Council presence focused on coordination, connection and activation.
The Council decision was made following an independent evaluation that received 711 community inputs rom traders, vulnerable community members and the broader community.
As the new civic-led presence is developed, Council will undertake further community consultation to help shape the final operating model. This is to ensure the approach reflects the lived experience, priorities and insights of residents, traders, service providers and people who use Footscray CBD every day.
The draft model will be released for public comment before it is formally adopted, giving the community a clear opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed design.
Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra said “Footscray is one of Melbourne’s most vibrant, creative and culturally rich centres. Our community cares deeply about its future and we do too.”
"People felt reassured when patrols were present, but the review found that real, lasting change comes from better connections, more activity and early support."
Council will transition to a new a council-led, on-ground presence providing:
- A consistent daily Council presence
- Stronger coordination between traders, services and community
- Early intervention and referral
- Increased trader engagement
- Facade and amenity uplift
- Creative activations to increase vibrancy
The change to a civic led approach forms part of Council’s broader Footscray revitalisation agenda.
Mayor Semra said the evidence-based decision to was reflected Council’s responsibility to balance safety, inclusion and promote the revitalisation of the CBD.
“We have a role in making places safe and welcoming while also supporting our most vulnerable community members.”
“This is about evolving our approach and investing in solutions that strengthen confidence, connection and opportunity in Footscray.”
Security presence will scale down with transitional funding allocated through to June.
Council acknowledged the support of cohealth, Mercy Health, local traders, Local Laws officers and the broader homelessness response network in working collaboratively on the issue.
Council is also investing more than $1 million in Footscray in 2025/26 through the Place Plan, alongside longer-term work including the Footscray Structure Plan and continued advocacy for infrastructure and social service support.
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