What’s Happening?
Townsville will lead a new Crime Stoppers Queensland campaign encouraging residents to anonymously report crime and suspicious activity.
The campaign aims to explain how anonymous reporting works, correct misconceptions about confidentiality and reduce fears around sharing information with police.
Why It Matters
The campaign follows Crime Stoppers Queensland’s first statewide public perception survey. It found that concerns about retaliation, personal safety and confidentiality prevent many Queenslanders from speaking up.
Crime Stoppers Queensland CEO David Hansen said many people wanted safer communities but remained concerned about the consequences of reporting information.
“Queenslanders care deeply about the safety of their communities, but too many people are holding back because they’re worried about what could happen if they speak up,” Mr Hansen said.
“The reality is that you may have information that could help police, even if you don’t know all the details. You also don’t have to reveal who you are. Crime Stoppers Queensland exists to remove those barriers by providing a safe and anonymous way for people to share information, not personal details, that could help prevent or solve crime.”
Local Impact
Townsville was selected as the first market because it combines a strong regional online audience with high reported offence rates.
The campaign seeks to build trust in anonymous reporting while encouraging residents to support crime prevention and police investigations.
“Townsville has a strong sense of community and we know people want to help make their neighbourhoods safer,” Mr Hansen said. “This campaign is about giving people confidence that they can share information anonymously and safely. Every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, has the potential to assist police investigations and help prevent future crime.”
By the Numbers
- The survey found 45% fear retaliation, 42% worry about personal safety and 41% question anonymity.
- Only 27% of Queenslanders have shared information about crime or suspicious activity with any organisation.
- From 2022 to 2024, Townsville recorded break-in rates 152.3% above the Queensland average. Motor vehicle theft was 135 per cent higher, while violent crime was 138.1 per cent higher.
Zoom In
The survey found women were more concerned than men about the risks associated with reporting crime. Personal safety or retaliation concerned 47 per cent of women, compared with 38 per cent of men.
Women were also less confident their identity would remain anonymous. Only 56 per cent expressed confidence, compared with 70 per cent of men.
Mr Hansen said improving confidence was important because community information could identify offenders, prevent crime and support police investigations.
“Police can’t be everywhere at once. Community information plays a vital role in preventing crime, identifying offenders and keeping Queenslanders safe,” he said. “Many people think they need concrete evidence before making a report. They don’t. Sometimes a seemingly small piece of information can be the missing link investigators need.”
Zoom Out
Although Townsville is the campaign’s first market, the survey suggests reporting concerns extend across Queensland.
Crime Stoppers Queensland wants people to understand they do not need complete evidence before reporting suspicious behaviour. Information that appears minor could still help investigators prevent or solve a crime.
What To Look For Next?
Targeted digital advertising and social media messages will be released across Townsville as the campaign reaches the community.
The messages will explain confidentiality and reassure residents that personal details are not required when sharing information.
Queenslanders can report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers Queensland or by calling 1800 333 000.
