Funding for the "Engadine Safer Suburbs" project is part of a federal government program which aims to inject $5.4 million to 43 projects in Australia.

NSW Labor senator Michael Forshaw was at Engadine to present a $50,000 cheque to the centre on behalf of Sutherland Shire Council at the project's launch last week.

Engadine businesswoman Annette Coulter, 47, was instrumental in the establishment of the project.

Her contributions to pushing for greater safety measures in the suburb will be recognised through the project's crime prevention initiatives that will be implemented in Engadine's CBD.

They include the removal of graffiti, the updating of existing vandalised alcohol-free zone signage and the installation of lights in the library car park, and closed circuit cameras in the new town square to discourage criminal activity.

Ms Coulter, who owns Contours Engadine — a women's health and fitness centre — with her partner Gary Nelson, has lived in Engadine for the past 19 years.

The mother of four said she was passionate about giving support to her community.

"When we bought the business four years ago, we started lobbying the council to make Engadine a safer place," Ms Coulter said.

"We were concerned about vandalism. Shop windows used to get broken, and there was always a problem of young people hanging around.

"I'm absolutely stoked to get the funds.

"It will mean a big difference."

Ms Coulter said her next goal was youth programs.

"My next battle is a state one, to put programs in place," she said.

"They are bored and it's getting worse.

"When we had police here the situation wasn't as bad but we need the station manned and to get youth liaison officers in.

"There isn't much point in just having police patrols.

"They need to be able to relate to the kids."

What do you think needs to be done to combat antisocial behaviour in the region?