Gosford model 'better than' Newcastle model as assault rates halve

Assault figures at and near licensed premises in Gosford are down 53 per cent on 2007 levels – according to NSW Bureau of Crime Statistic and Research figures due to a co-operative approach between hoteliers, police and the community.

Non-domestic assaults in Wyong have fallen by the same amount over the same period. Green said the drop in assault figures was a tribute to the efforts of local hoteliers working with police and the community.

"This is an amazing result and shows what can be done when the community works together to address violence," he said.

"The figure of 53 per cent is much better than the debateable 37 per cent trumpeted by the proponents of the Newcastle model – and were achieved without destroying Gosford's night-time economy.

"Assaults in all NSW licensed premises are down an average 30 per cent over the last five years – Gosford has done a lot better than average with a 53 per cent drop.

"I would like to praise the efforts of hoteliers and the local liquor accord which has been working hard to deal with the thugs wrecking nights out in the community.

"Green said the drop in assault levels around licensed premises right across NSW put paid to suggestions by interest groups that the  'Newcastle model' was the only way to go.

"These figures show you achieve results through co-operation and targeting of offenders – not through regulations," he said.

"It shows what can be achieved when the community voluntarily works together on the causes of violence – instead of the Newcastle model maybe we should be talking about the 'Gosford Model'."