Mayor welcomes safer city plan

Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge has welcomed plans to shut down anti-social behaviour in entertainment hot spots, saying it would help make Fremantle feel safer and even more enticing for families.

The State Government today flagged plans to introduce new laws cracking down on violence in Perth’s most popular eating and drinking precincts. The new laws, expected to come into force by the end of the year, will mean anyone convicted of carrying out violent attacks can be banned for up to five years. It also gives WA Police power to issue ‘exclusion orders’ that would ban perpetrators of anti-social behaviour for up to six months.

Fremantle will be one of five key locations designated as a Protected Entertainment Precinct under the new laws. Mayor Fitzhardinge said this protection would help ensure Fremantle remained a safe place for families to enjoy a meal at the many restaurants and cafes, and give confidence for those wanting a trouble-free night out.

“We’re always working hard in partnership with our business community and hoteliers to make Freo a welcoming, friendly and inclusive place to be, and these new laws will help reinforce that,” she said.

“With warmer weather arriving and people getting back out into the swing of post-COVID socialising, this is a great way of confirming Freo’s status as a must-visit dining and entertainment precinct—there are so many fantastic places to enjoy a great meal and a catchup with friends and family.”