The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, has again raised concerns for community safety following the release of new crime data from the Crime Statistics Agency.
The newly released figures show criminal offences are continuing to rise across Latrobe City, Wellington Shire and South Gippsland Shire with an increase of almost 18 per cent in the 12 months to December 2025.
Mr O’Brien said the trend was deeply worrying for local communities.
“Gippslanders deserve to feel safe in their own homes, but right now many don’t,” Mr O’Brien said.
“These newly released Crime Statistics Agency figures show crime is rising across our region and too many offences are going unsolved.”
Across the three local government areas, more than 30 per cent of offences remain unsolved, while fewer than half result in an arrest or summons.
Mr O’Brien said the situation was being made worse by statewide issues under the Allan Labor Government, including around 1,500 police vacancies, more than 40 stations closed or operating on reduced hours, and cuts to police funding.
“Our local police do an outstanding job in very difficult circumstances.
“They are working incredibly hard, often under-resourced and under-staffed, to keep our communities safe.
“Fewer police on the ground means fewer crimes solved and slower response times.
“That puts Gippslanders at risk, particularly in smaller and more isolated communities.
Mr O’Brien also pointed to changes to bail laws and broader resourcing pressures as contributing to the problem.
“People are frustrated and they have every right to be,” he said.
“We need stronger laws, proper resourcing for police, and a government that takes community safety seriously.”
Mr O’Brien said he would continue to advocate for greater support for frontline police and stronger action to address crime in Gippsland.
“Our communities should not be left behind when it comes to safety.
“Labor can’t manage money and it can’t keep communities safe and Gippslanders are paying the price.”