The federal Government will use money confiscated from criminals to fund a A$1.5 million ($1.9 million) boost to Neighbourhood Watch.
Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said the money would fund an expansion of the community-based crime prevention organisation.
He said the money could come from funds seized from "crooks" under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
"I think it's a nice symmetry to be able to take the ill-gotten gains from criminals and give it to crime fighters," he told reporters in Cairns.
Neighbourhood Watch Australasia president Tess Walsh said the money would allow the organisation to set up a national office and employ paid staff for the first time.
"It's a tremendous announcement and a very exciting day for our tens of thousands of volunteers throughout Australia."
She said in addition to funding crime prevention initiatives the money would go towards programmes that helped people feel safe.
- AAP