THE state government is being called upon to do more for regional law enforcement after recent statistics showed a recent surge in local crime.
Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data for the year ending September 2024 has revealed major increases in criminal behaviour across all six of the Euroa electorate’s council areas.
These increases include the number of total criminal incidents, offences recorded, and incidents of family violence.
Nationals MP Annabelle Cleeland said the government was not doing enough to support local law enforcement and that the ‘continual under-resourcing’ of Victoria Police needed to stop as a matter of priority.
“While entire stations are walking off the job as they seek a fairer deal, crime is up across the board,” Ms Cleeland said.
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“It is simply unacceptable that a lack of resourcing and support by this government can be allowed to impact the safety of our towns and residents who are trying to do the right thing.
“We are dealing with the consequences.”
Ms Cleeland said many regional Victorians were feeling unsafe due to continued under-resourcing which has led to 1000 police vacancies, 900 officers off duty due to illness and injury, and the closure of 43 police stations.
The Mitchell Shire has since had a 31.9 per cent increase in crime, with 851 more incidents than the previous year.
Offences recorded in Strathbogie (shire) increased by 34.7 per cent, while family violence incidents rose by 17.8 per cent.
Ms Cleeland said the government needed to ‘step up’ and take more action.
“Community safety should never be compromised due to an incompetent government,” she said.
