The McNamara Street premises has had three fires in the past four years, resulting in damage to both the building and its stock of donated goods.

It is hoped the cameras, a new sprinkler system outside the building and warning signs will deter people from lighting fires on or near the premises.

Vinnies’ diocesan executive officer Frank Moes said he hoped the security system would also stop the theft and vandalism of donated goods that occurs primarily over the weekend.

“When the staff come in on a Monday they’re frustrated by all of the mess and the work ahead of them,” he said.

“It’s a nightmare, donations are spread all over the footpath.”

Mr Moes says as least one truckload of goods is taken to the tip every Monday.

“I believe a lot of good things are left for us over the weekend but people just take the liberty of ratting through it and picking up what they want,” he said.

Mr Moes said the footage would be reviewed on a regular basis and pictures of those involved would be made available to the public in an effort to identify them.

“We don’t want to trap people,” he said.

“We want to make it clear that this area is subject to cameras.”