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Serious crime rises reflect community concerns, worsened by Labor's cuts, weakened bail, reduced youth programs, says Melina BathCrime in Eastern Victoria has reached a 20-year high, with Melina Bath condemning Labor's soft approach, police under-resourced, and The Nationals vowing stronger laws, prevention programs, and community safety reforms. By news@gippsland - 25th September 2025 - Back to News The latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) released today confirms that the crime crisis is worsening and at its highest level in 20 years. The Nationals' Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, said analysis of the new CSA figures highlights further increases in crime across all local government areas in eastern Victoria. 
Local government areas - percentage rise in crime June 2024 -2025 Police underfunded crisisMs Bath said, "Not a week goes by without my office receiving calls about alarming local crimes with people reaching out for support and advocacy. Victoria Police has 2000 empty jobs - our hardworking police officers are doing their best under immense pressure but are let down by the Allan Labor government. Locals are paying the price - left feeling unsafe in their homes, on the streets and even while shopping." Ms Bath said the rise in serious offences such as motor vehicle theft, aggravated residential burglary, retail crime and assaults reflects the lived experiences being shared with her. "The Allan government continues to ignore the problem, it has cut the Victoria Police budget, failed to provide adequate resources, watered down bail laws and cut youth diversion programs that are proven to work." Ending crime cycleMs Bath added, "In contrast, The Nationals in government are committed to crime reform including introducing Jack's Law to allow police to search for and remove weapons and a suite of effective community based intervention and residential programs." "Rising crime is a serious statewide issue, and the statistics show that regional and rural communities are not immune to Labor's soft-on-crime approach. I encourage all locals to remain vigilant about their personal and home safety. Labor's disturbing cycle of crime must end - only a Nationals and Liberals government will take decisive action to crack down on crime and deliver the protection our communities deserve," Ms Bath said. Pictures from Melina Bath MP website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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