Victorians are less safe than ever as new data from the Crime Statistics Agency confirms criminal offending has reached a record high under Labor.
Across South Gippsland and Bass Coast, crime has surged by 17 per cent and 12 per cent respectively in the 12 months to December 2025.
The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, said since Jacinta Allan became Premier, Victoria has been left exposed with 1,500 police vacancies, more than 40 stations closed or operating on reduced hours and weaker bail laws than in 2023.
“Crime is impacting every corner of our community, it is not just a Melbourne problem,” Ms Bath said.
“The statistics don’t lie – three cars are stolen every hour and a quarter of a million crimes remain unsolved statewide.
“In Bass Coast there’s disproportionate spikes in car theft, prohibited weapons offences and retail crime, while South Gippsland’s 86 per cent increase in retail crime is deeply concerning for local businesses and their employees.”
Ms Bath said residents and workers regularly tell her they feel increasingly unsafe in their home and at the shops, they are tired of Labor’s soft on crime approach.
“The Nationals have a clear plan to keep communities safe, with real consequences for offenders who breach bail and stronger measures to remove knives and weapons from our streets through Jack’s Law.
“We back early intervention through evidence led youth diversion programs to help keep young people out of the justice system by addressing underlying causes of offending.
“Our hardworking police deserve a government that backs them with resources and the legislative tools they need.
“Instead, the Allan Government has left them under‑resourced and financially stripped.
“I encourage locals to remain vigilant, look out for themselves, friends, neighbours and family.
“Labor’s disturbing cycle of rising crime must end, all Victorians deserve safer communities and stronger protections.”
