The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to take strong and immediate action to help regional communities being gripped by youth crime, after a tragic escalation of the crisis.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said he is deeply disturbed by an incident involving a stolen car, that led to the death of a motorcycle rider in Gunnedah.

“This is a tragedy that never should have happened. An innocent life has been lost because of the reckless actions of these offenders,” Mr Anderson said.

“My thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim who will be mourning the loss of their loved one, as well as with the first responders who worked tirelessly to try and save a life.

“Our communities are outraged by the Government’s complete lack of action to get on top of this serious issue, and I am calling on the Premier to do more to keep them safe.”

Member for the Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan echoed the calls, saying something needs to change.

“One death is one too many and this should be a clear turning point for the Government to recognise it needs to step up,” Mr Moylan said.

“Too often we see repeat offenders or people out on bail committing these crimes and we can’t keep doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.

“It’s been almost a year since the Premier announced the Moree pilot program and we haven’t seen any tangible change on the ground.

“People are still scared and fed up and we need to urgently know exactly what progress has been made to stop these types of incidents from ever happening again.”