The crime rate across Victoria has increased by 3.8%.

The total number of offences has increased by 5.6%, to a total of 403,618 offences up by 21,347 offences.

Crime against the person has increased by 7.4%.

Assaults are up 11.9%.

Crime against property has decreased by 0.4%.

Residential burglaries are up 1.2%.

Theft of motor vehicles has increased by 2.5%.

Drug offences have increased by 12.7%.

Other crimes have increased by 18.7%.

Family violence related crime is continuing to drive up the overall statistics accounting for 38.6% of crime against the person.

Victims of crime for support and advice call 1800 000 055 or go to www.victimsofcrime.com.au or email: support@victimsofcrime.com.au

About the author