THE voices of 22,015 people will be heard when the Time for Change petition is debated in the NSW Parliament on Thursday.

The petition, lodged by Tamworth victim of crime Phebe Furneaux, asks the State Government to strengthen bail laws to prevent violent young offenders from re-offending, provide increased resources and support for police officers to effectively apprehend and prosecute offenders and review the judicial system to prioritise community safety.

“Too many young offenders are being let out on bail to re-offend, committing multiple crimes such as breaking and entering, holding people at knifepoint, carrying weapons with intent to injure or kill, stealing cars, and engaging in police pursuits. These actions put lives at risk and our communities have had enough,” the petition states.

“Our safety and peace is being disregarded. We want that back. We want the police officers in our towns to have the support they need to catch these criminals and ensure they are dealt with appropriately.”

Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson, will present the petition on behalf of the community, taking the voice of concerned residents directly to the Labor Government.

“Serious and escalating incidents of crime have left many in our community angry and afraid in their own homes,” Mr Anderson said.

“I’ve spoken to many local victims of crime who are fed up with having their homes broken in to and treasured valuables and cars stolen.

“We have a right to feel safe in our own homes, which is why locals have had enough and been calling for tougher laws and consequences for actions.

“Tamworth’s Phebe Furneaux recently started the Time for Change e-petition which has had an overwhelming response from the local community, quickly surpassing the 20,000 signatures required to be debated in the NSW Parliament.

“Tomorrow, the petition will be debated, and I will be taking our region’s voice forward, calling on the Labor government to do more.

“I’ll be speaking on behalf of our community who have contacted me, distressed, upset, and concerned about their safety.

“This petition is an opportunity for the government to stand up and listen to the 22,015 people who have called for change, and I’ll be making sure our region’s voice is heard.”

The petition will be debated at 4-15pm Thursday, May 29 and can be streamed on the NSW Parliament Website.