Victoria’s crime rate drops significantly

Victoria has seen a big drop in crime in a year again impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns.

Victoria’s overall crime rate is down 9.8 per cent for the year to September.

COVID-19 fines fell 60 per cent, while there were double digit decreases in burglaries, robberies and thefts.

Family violence related offences increased by 2.8 per cent and there were also increases harassment and stalking offences, as well as breaches of orders.

Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent said the predicted surge in crime after lockdown ended last year didn’t eventuate.

He’s hopeful there won’t be a snap-back to pre-COVID crime levels again this year.