Shop owners say they feel unsafe at night and have had shop windows smashed on repeated occasions.

The behaviour is being blamed on people who assemble in the rotunda at all hours of the day and night.

While ACT Policing has increased patrols in the area, which some business owners say has improved the situation, other traders are concerned the trouble will return.

A petition has been lodged in the ACT Legislative Assembly calling for improved security after alleged break-ins, thefts, assaults and incidents involving drugs and alcohol.

Jindebah Coffee owner Lisa Ainscough said she wanted improved lighting in the area and security cameras to help identify those causing trouble.

While the cafe closes to the public in the evening, staff often stay to prepare for catering jobs. ''If you are working late you do feel unsecure in the area,'' Ms Ainscough said.

''We really want better lighting in the area and CCTV cameras.''

Salon Altenburg owner Matthew Altenburg said he had had his shop windows broken four times and had needed stitches after an object was thrown at his head.

''Because I'm one of the few people who says stop, I'm the one who gets attacked,'' he said.

Mr Altenburg said keeping his salon open later at night was not an option because of the threat posed by antisocial behaviour.

A spokeswoman for Justice and Community Safety Minister Simon Corbell said while the government had expanded the CCTV system to include Manuka and Kingston, there were no definitive plans to install cameras further south in the town centre.

''It is important to understand that CCTV alone is not a comprehensive deterrent to adverse behaviours,'' she said.