Victoria's crime rate falls 3.8% as home invasions plummet
Crime fell 3.8% in the year to June 2026; home invasions, carjackings and robberies all dropped more than 20%.
Victoria's crime rate dropped 3.8% in the 12 months to June 2026, with several serious offences falling sharply. Home invasions fell 27%, carjackings by 25% and robberies by 22%.
Youth offending decreased 8.1%. Serious and violent crimes dropped 4%, and theft from motor vehicles fell 10%.
However, Victoria Police say crime remains unacceptably high, still about 13% above levels three years ago. Crime Statistics Agency chief Fiona Dowsley said the drop in burglaries was significant but the exact cause was unclear.
Police point to drugs, organised crime and repeat offenders as ongoing problems, with drug trafficking and dealing spiking 18.5%.
- 3.8% fall in year to June 2026
- Overall decline
- fell 27%
- Home invasions
- 13% higher than three years ago
- Above prior baseline
- 1340 unfilled roles
- Police shortfall
Why it mattersCrime is falling but still too high, meaning police efforts are working but Victorians remain concerned about safety.
AustraliaVictoria residents face lower risk of home invasion, carjacking and robbery, though the state continues tackling drug-related crime and retains 1340 vacant police positions.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 10 h ago
