Just over 50 per cent of Wyndham residents were born overseas according to the latest census data. Werribee Police Station’s new multicultural liaison officer Senior Constable Campbell Taylor tells Fatima Halloum about his role in better understanding the needs of the differing community groups present in the municipality.
What does your new role entail?
My new role as the multicultural liaison officer within the Westgate Proactive Unit involves being a conduit between Victoria Police and the various ethnic/community groups that call Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong home. I attend many of the community events and meetings as they arise and engage with community leaders and representatives to hear issues of concern, or positive feedback, whilst simultaneously building stronger working relationships for a more coherent and unified approach moving forward.
What does this mean for the community?
The community can take confidence knowing that Victoria Police have a dedicated member to contact within division two who will take the time to get to know the various community groups and be the conduit to liaise update the Local Area Commander of the various work units within our division.
Did you grow up in Wyndham? What are some of your favourite places to visit?
I’ve only recently been introduced to the wonderful Wyndham (better late than never!). I’m still getting to know the area and having a lot of fun exploring all it has to offer. That said, I am susceptible to a cheeky pork roll so any of the delicious Vietnamese bakeries are always a favourite.
Tell us about some previous work you’ve done in the western suburbs?
This is the first deployment I have worked in the western suburbs. However, prior to joining Victoria Police, I was a Police Officer in Western Australia where I spent the majority of my years working in remote communities that nurtured many varied community groups/beliefs.
What do you like about working in Wyndham?
The vibrant community, the ever growing infrastructure and developments, not to mention the close proximity to Melbourne and the MCG to see the mighty cats play.
What are the benefits of having a multicultural liaison officer available?
Community groups and leaders have a direct link to a representative of Victoria Police who will actively listen to concerns and pass on the information to make constructive positive change. Having a multicultural liaison officer provides the opportunity to build genuine rapport and trust between community groups and Victoria Police through constant and consistent engagement, thereby strengthening relations for positive growth.
What’s something the community should know about community safety?
Community safety relies on everyone doing their bit to make the city we live and work in safer. In a lot of cases, information that may not seem of significance can actually lead to important arrests. If residents see something suspicious or hear something that might be happening call the police. Together let’s make Wyndham, Hobson’s Bay and Maribyrnong as safe as we possibly can.
How can residents get in contact with you?
I encourage residents to follow the Victoria Police eyewatch pages which contains information on community events that I regularly attend. Don’t be shy if you see us out and about and by all means come and say hello.
