Victoria implements new violence reduction and crime prevention initiatives

The Victorian Government has launched the ‘Ground Up’ initiative, a $13 million program designed to support community organizations in priority areas. Managed by the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), the initiative utilizes a public health approach to deliver localized solutions for reducing violence. Rather than having organizations compete for funds, the program encourages local consortia to work toward shared goals, such as supporting young people and addressing the specific drivers of violence within their unique communities.

Separately, the Victorian Greens have proposed a $1 billion investment to establish an Office of Community Safety & Crime Prevention if they win the November state election. Inspired by a similar model in New York City, the proposal aims to implement a whole-of-government approach to crime. The Greens' plan includes funding for 24/7 crisis outreach, prevention programs, and increased support for frontline mental health, homelessness, and substance abuse services. This comes following a report from the Victorian Auditor-General's Office which noted a lack of clear targets in existing crime prevention funding.