Retail crime is rising sharply across eastern Victoria, placing increasing pressure on small businesses and local communities, as the Allan Government fails to adequately address the growing crisis.
The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, has called on the Minister for Police to outline what steps are being taken to fill more than 1100 police vacancies, so retailers and shoppers feel safe in their workplace and community.
Data from the Crime Statistics Agency highlights retail crime has jumped by an average of 66 per cent over the past year across the local government areas of Latrobe, Wellington, Baw Baw, Bass Coast, Cardinia, East Gippsland, and South Gippsland.
Ms Bath said workers and shoppers are concerned about their safety.
“Criminal incidents are increasing in frequency and becoming more brazen, community and small business owners tell me they feel increasingly vulnerable.”
Victorian businesses are experiencing the largest increase in violent and threatening retail crime nationally, according to the Australian Retailers Association.
Ms Bath said these incidents were taking an emotional and financial toll – staff should never feel unsafe at work and customers deserve to feel secure while supporting local businesses.
“Our valued Victoria Police are doing their best with inadequate resources, but persistent staffing shortages, particularly in our regional areas, makes their job harder.
“It’s clear the thin blue line is being stretched to its limit under the Allan Government.
“Labor must deliver urgent support to retailers, their employees, and the community by providing Victoria Police with the resources they need.
“Our small businesses are essential as they create local jobs and keep our towns thriving – they shouldn’t be left to deal with this on their own.
“The Allan Government must take responsibility, reverse the concerning trend and deliver safer streets and shopping precincts for everyone.”
