Building friendly confident and safe communities
Victoria today
Victoria is the safest State in Australia. Reported rates of crime have declined overall, including the rates for serious crimes. The re-offending rate has been reduced, and our sense of personal safety has improved. We have introduced new crime prevention strategies, increased the number of police and built new police stations. Our roads are also safer, with 2003 recording the lowest road toll (330) since proper records began in 1951.Victorians value the connections they share with their neighbours and local services and businesses. Social connections are improving and more people are participating in community and volunteer organisations. We have invested in local community infrastructure through Neighbourhood Renewal, community building projects and by encouraging volunteering.
Challenges ahead
Continuing to reduce crime levels at the same rate as the last few years is likely to be difficult. Reported crime rates for some types of crime may increase in the short term because of Government efforts to encourage reporting, particularly of domestic violence and sexual offences. Our success in reducing the road toll has been dramatic, but further reductions will require a sustained effort from all involved, including drivers. Too many people still consider that speeding, or driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, is acceptable. Victoria is renowned for its friendly people, yet too many Victorians feel socially isolated. All of us face the personal challenge of assisting those who do not have adequate support networks.
Measuring progress
Progress towards increased community safety needs to be measured both by crime rates and our sense of personal safety. The decline in crime rates over the past few years has not always increased the sense of safety in our local communities. Road safety needs to encompass not only road deaths, but also the serious injuries sustained in road crashes. Increasingly confident and friendly communities will have greater participation in community activities and stronger social support networks.
- Crime will be reduced by 5 per cent from 2003 to 2008, and Victorians will feel safer
- Annual deaths and serious injuries from road crashes will be reduced by 20 per cent over the period 2002 to 2007
- The extent and diversity of participation in community, cultural and recreational organisations will increase
- More Victorians will be able to get help from friends, family or neighbours when they need it
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