Crime in the City of Brimbank has increased by 9.4% cent in the past year to March, with a total of 18,676 crimes reported.

* Drug offences have increased by 43.6%, from 753 to 1179.

* Assaults, excluding Family Violence, have increased by 31.3%, from 753 to 989.

Brimbank Police said that they are disappointed with a spike in crime and described the increase as staggering and that crime in Brimbank is not reducing in either the numbers or at the pace that they would like.

Victims of crime for financial support and professional advice call Victims of Crime Compensation Victoria on 1800 000 055 or go to www.victimsofcrime.com.au or email: support@victimsofcrime.com.au

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