Residents across Greater Geelong are confronting sobering new data that maps out the region's crime hotspots, with several northern suburbs recording alarmingly high offence rates. The latest figures released by the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) for the year ending December 2023 paint a clear picture of where criminal activity is most concentrated.
Northern Suburbs Bear the Brunt of Criminal Activity
The data reveals that Corio is the most concerning locality, recording a staggering 16,214.8 incidents per 100,000 people. This places it significantly above the state average and marks it as the area with the highest crime rate in the Greater Geelong municipality. Close behind is neighbouring Norlane, with a rate of 15,736.8 offences per 100,000 residents.
Other suburbs featuring prominently on the list include Whittington, with a crime rate of 13,264.8, and central Geelong itself, which recorded 12,809.4 incidents per 100,000 people. The statistics encompass a wide range of offences, from property crimes and theft to more serious assaults and public order violations.
Police Response and Community Concerns
In response to the figures, a Victoria Police spokesperson acknowledged the challenges in these areas. They stated that police deployment is continuously reviewed based on crime data and intelligence, with a focus on proactive patrols in identified hotspots. Operation Alliance, a broader Geelong-based initiative, is cited as a key strategy aimed at disrupting crime and improving community safety through high-visibility policing.
Community leaders and local residents have expressed deep concern over the numbers. The persistent high rates in Corio and Norlane point to underlying socio-economic issues that require more than just a policing response. Advocates are calling for increased investment in youth services, social housing, and community programs to address the root causes of crime.
A Look at the Broader Picture and Safer Havens
While the spotlight falls on the high-crime areas, the data also highlights Geelong's safest suburbs. Locations such as Lara, Leopold, and Highton recorded crime rates well below the municipal and state averages, offering a stark contrast to the northern corridor.
The overall crime rate for the Greater Geelong local government area was 9,139.1 incidents per 100,000 people. This is higher than the Victorian state average of 7,758.4, indicating a specific set of challenges for the region. The release of this data is expected to fuel further debate on resource allocation, crime prevention strategies, and the long-term social planning needed to create safer communities for all Geelong residents.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers or local police. Community meetings are being planned in the affected suburbs to discuss the statistics and collaborative solutions.
