Car thefts and youth crime surge in Victoria

Sydney

Victoria's crime rate has spiked by 13.2% in 2024, reaching its highest point since 2016, according to the latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA). The most notable rise occurred in property and deception crimes, which surged by 21.9%, primarily driven by thefts.

CSA Chief Statistician Fiona Dowsley explained that theft offences, including car thefts, retail store thefts, and vehicle break-ins, have surpassed historical peaks. Car thefts, particularly involving young offenders, are at record levels, contributing heavily to the rise in crime. Dowsley also linked rising cost-of-living pressures with an increase in shoplifting, especially among adult offenders in their 30s.

Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill called the crime surge “unacceptable” and highlighted the significant impact on victims. He pointed out that electronic devices used to break into vehicles have played a key role in the car theft spike. Hill urged vehicle owners to invest in affordable crime prevention measures.

The Victorian government is taking action, pushing for new bail laws targeting both adult and youth offenders who commit crimes while on bail. Recent operations, including Operation Alliance and Operation Trinity, have led to the arrest of over 3,400 young offenders, aged 14 to 17, many of whom were responsible for a large portion of aggravated home burglaries.

Authorities are focusing efforts on tackling youth gang-related crimes, with 20 offenders in Melbourne committing nearly one-fifth of all such crimes in 2024.