Victorians are paying the price for crime prevention failures under the Allan Labor Government, as new Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) figures confirm criminal offending rose to 640,860 in the year to September 2025 – an increase of 62,671 offences.
The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath said the latest data was deeply concerning for families, small businesses and community groups.
“Across Eastern Victoria, the average crime rate rose by 12.7 per cent.
“People want to feel safe at home, on the street and at work – and right now too many Victorians don’t,” said Ms Bath.
“Behind every statistic is a person – a shop owner cleaning up after another theft, a family shaken by a break-in or a senior who no longer feels comfortable going out after dark.”
Ms Bath said Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data also shows Victoria recorded the highest number of victims nationally in 2024 for unlawful entry with intent (45,895), robbery (3,436) and motor vehicle theft (22,504).
“Victorians have also watched Labor wind back access to local police stations, including reduced operating hours at 43 police stations.”
“Labor has cut funding by almost $50 million to Victoria Police. Net debt continues to grow by $1.7 million an hour and is expected to rise to $192.6 billion by June 2028-29 – putting ongoing pressure on frontline services and the cost of living.
“An offence is now recorded in Victoria about every 49 seconds – this is intolerable and unacceptable.
“The Nationals will strengthen bail and sentencing laws to meet community expectations, back police and reduce crime through greater prevention and rehabilitation initiatives.
“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage crime and Victorians are paying the price.”
Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) – Recorded offences (year to Sept 2025):
Wellington +12% | Bass Coast +12.4%
Baw Baw +12% | East Gippsland +6.4%
Latrobe +13% | South Gippsland +0.3%
Cardinia +25.5% | Casey +20%
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