Concerned residents have gathered across the region to have their input on rising crime at community safety forums.
Crime Statistics Agency data for the year ending December 31, 2023, showed alarming increases in criminal activity within the Mitchell Shire and other areas.
In the Shire, there has been an 11.6 per cent rise in criminal incidents with 39.2 per cent of cases being unsolved, up from 30 per cent, while in Strathbogie, criminal incidents are up 9.6 per cent with a staggering 56.6 per cent of cases remaining unsolved, up from 41.3 per cent.
The forums, hosted by Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, were joined by Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin at meetings in Broadford, Benalla, Euroa, and Locksley on June 12.
The meeting tackled issues including the increase in local crime, particularly in relation to thefts, farm crimes, assaults, and family violence incidents, as well as the need for more police resources in country towns.
“I understand that several people in our region, whether it be in town or on farms, have been feeling more vulnerable to crime than usual in recent times and I’m so glad they were able to share their stories with us,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Hearing about the incredible efforts of households, farmers, and businesses, and what they are doing to keep safe was inspiring – whether it be reinvigorating their Neighbourhood Watch programs or increasing their property surveillance.”
The forums also provided information on the current policing situation for towns such as Euroa, that remain isolated from major police hubs.
“With 35 weeks of continuous protests in Melbourne, regional police keep getting dragged into the city to manage protests and are taken away from vital duties locally,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This lack of support locally threatens to leave rural communities without a policing presence and sends a signal that the safety and protection of our rural communities doesn’t matter.
“Many of these small country towns are too far away from a major centre for police to respond to an emergency situation within a reasonable timeframe.
“I look forward to there being increase in police resources in our towns in the near future, so that everyone feels safe in their homes, farms, and businesses.”
