City of Stirling takes lead on online marketplace safety

A trial by the City of Stirling aims to give people a safer place to exchange items bought and sold online.

The rise of Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, Ebay and other online platforms has led to millions of Australian trading items over the internet.

While most in-person exchanges are completed without incident, there have been reports of scams, thefts and even violence in Australia.

Safer exchange sites are designed to make these exchanges more convenient and safer through CCTV surveillance, passive surveillance and other measures at public locations.

Last month, City of Stirling Council voted to proceed with a trial of a safer exchange site at 679 Beaufort Street in Mount Lawley.

The trial, which was proposed by Deputy Mayor Suzanne Migdale, will start today and run for 12 months with support from WA Police Force.

Victoria Police rolled out safer exchange sites across Victoria late last year, creating a network of 35 sites outside police stations after a successful trial in 2022.

There have been no plans announced to replicate the Victoria Police model in Western Australia or any other Australian state or territory.

The Beaufort Street site was chosen because it had most of the key features required for a safer exchange site without the need for significant investment.

Located near the entrance to one of the City’s free public car parks, it has accessible seating, a public toilet, good lighting, access to public transport and a combination of active and passive surveillance.

While these elements are designed to create a safer environment for exchanges, members of the public are encouraged to exercise caution and be aware of the risks associated with shopping online.

The City has now installed signage at the site and is inviting community members and local businesses to share their feedback to shape the future of safer exchange sites in the City.

“We are committed to making our community safer and this is an emerging safety issue that is only going to become more prominent,” Mayor Mark Irwin said.

“A lot of people who use these online platforms are happy to make exchanges at their house or at someone else’s house – and that’s fine.

“A safer exchange site just gives members of our community another option and allows them to meet in a public place where they may feel more comfortable.”

“If this trial is successful, we will look at the possibility of creating safer exchange sites in other areas of the City.”