The frustration, anger and demands of regional NSW were heard as the Time for Change petition was debated in the NSW Parliament.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the government must now respond to the 22,015 people who signed the petition, calling for change.

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

“I’ve spoken to many victims of crime who have been attacked in their own homes, left shocked, battered, bruised, and had their most treasured valuables stolen.

“My message to the government was clear – ‘enough is enough – it’s time for change. The community demands change as soon as possible, and the Government now has until the 10^th of June to respond to the petition and the community’s calls for change.’

“The community expects that when you do wrong, you will face consequences. We have a right to feel safe in our own homes, and locals have been calling for tougher laws and consequences for actions.

“This is an issue that is affecting regional communities across NSW, and we heard from the members for Northern Tablelands, Clarence, Coffs Harbour, and Central Coast who spoke passionately about the deep concerns in their communities.

“Tamworth’s Phebe Furneaux started the Time for Change e-petition and I thank her for travelling to the NSW Parliament to watch the debate alongside Narrabri’s Adam McNamara whose brother was tragically killed when he struck by a stolen Ute allegedly driven by a 14-year-old boy.

“The government now has until the 10^th of June to respond to the 22,015 people who called for change. Our community’s voice is strong, and this petition sends a strong message to the government that we want change.”

The full Time for Change crime petition debate can be downloaded here.