OUTREACH workers from the “Community Connectors” program, which works with people across the Frankston Station and Young Street precinct, estimate that they have prevented more than 400 dangerous incidents within a year.
Frankston Council estimates that in the 2025/2026 financial year, its Community Connectors program supported 3100 people and prevented 406 “incidents of harm”. Community Connectors workers offer immediate support for people in need, referrals to local services, and training for Metro Trains staff.
Council estimates that 216 situations were “successfully de-escalated”, and that 217 referrals to specialist services were made. Frankston mayor Cr Sue Baker said the program “works because it’s focused on building trust, making connections and helping people access the right support before problems become crises.”
“That benefits the people receiving support, while also contributing to a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone using the precinct,” Cr Baker said.
Council is seeking $750,000 from the state government to continue Community Connectors. Cr Baker said “we have a program that delivers clear results, has been recognised nationally and is now being offered in other parts of greater Melbourne.
“We want to build on that success and see Community Connectors continue to be part of the practical work that makes Frankston a safer and more connected community, but we can’t do that alone. Ahead of this state election we are calling on all Frankston candidates to put Community Connectors and Frankston City First.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 15 September 2026