Alice Springs mayor calls for ‘heavy handed response’ as crisis talks held over increased crime

The central Australian town of Alice Springs has had a major increase in reports of property offences, assaults and other crimes over the past year. Photograph: Aaron Bunch/AAP

Federal and local authorities have held crisis talks over the escalating wave of crime and violence across Alice Springs.

Tensions have been escalating in the central Australian town after an increase in property offences, assaults, and joyriding in stolen cars. NT police statistics show reported property offences jumped by almost 60% over the past 12 months, while assaults have increased by 38% and domestic violence assaults by 48%.