Victoria’s Police Minister Lisa Neville says Melton’s spiralling crime rate is causing her concern.
“We understand people are genuinely concerned, particularly with increases in theft of motor vehicles and burglary offences,” she told Star Weekly.
In the state upper house last week, Western Victoria MP Joshua Morris said Melton faced a “crime crisis” after new data revealed a 17 per cent increase in the 12 months to March 31.
“As we all know, Melton is a very fast-growing area and these are quite shocking crime figures,” Mr Morris said.
“It’s evident from these numbers that there certainly is a crime crisis in Melton.
“Families who have a right to feel safe in their own communities have not got that luxury in Melton.”
Mr Morris acknowledged the “great work” of Melton police but said “they can only do the work they can with the resources they are given”.
Police Association secretary Ron Iddles said the state government and Victoria Police must accept there was a problem.
“Most crimes, but especially property- related crime, can be prevented,” Mr Iddles said.
“A visible police presence must be restored.”
Ms Neville said she was working with Victoria Police to reverse the upward crime trend.
“That’s why we have funded an additional 400 police.”
