Provision of community services Local councils provide a range of community services which are relevant to crime. Councils also provide funding or in kind support to local organisations to enable them to provide social services such as family and crisis support, housing recreation, health services and employment assistance. Can address some of the underlying causes of crime such as unemployment, alcohol and drug use, and boredom amongst young people. Recreation facilities can address some of the underlying causes of crime. Street lighting can increase the risk of detection and can make people feel safe.
Public facilities can encourage people to use public places.
Landscaping can increase the risk of detection. Landscaping and maintenance of public places can encourage people to use these areas because they are perceived as being attractive and can make people feel safe. Local councils through the development application process, also have a role in determining what kind of social services, provided by community based or private sector organisations, such as child care, youth services, recreation, housing and health services, are available in the local area. The location and design of buildings and other physical infrastructure can minimise the opportunities for committing crime, maximise the risk of detection, and minimise the rewards from committing crime. The provision of social services can address some of the underlying causes of crime.