UPDATE: A new study reveals that residents of Melbourne’s west feel the least safe in their homes compared to any other region in Victoria. The findings, unveiled today by the RACV and Neighbourhood Watch, highlight a concerning perception of safety across the state.
The Victorian Community Safety Perception report analyzed 8,021 responses from Neighbourhood Watch Victoria’s ‘How Safe Is My House’ quiz, conducted from 2021 to 2024. This significant study is the first of its kind to focus not only on crime data but also on residents’ feelings of safety and the protective measures they take.
Residents in Melbourne’s western metropolitan region—including areas like Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham, Brimbank, Melton, and Moonee Ponds—reported the lowest safety rating at 7.29. In stark contrast, the western regional areas, encompassing all council areas west of Melbourne, achieved the highest safety rating of 7.87. The northern metropolitan region, which includes Hume and Whittlesea, received a rating of 7.56, while the statewide average stood at 7.66.
The report also indicates a rising trend in safety measures among residents. In the western metropolitan area, the use of home security systems grew from 53% in 2021 to 63% in 2024. However, the uptake of home security systems in the western regional area saw a decline, dropping from 45% to 43% during the same period.
Neighbourhood Watch Chief Executive Bambi Gordon emphasized the importance of these findings. “The data shows that while crime statistics are important, people’s perceptions of safety are shaped by many factors including their environment, community connections, and personal experiences,” Ms. Gordon stated. “Understanding how residents perceive their safety is crucial for developing effective community safety strategies.”
As concerns about home safety intensify, this report serves as a critical call to action for local authorities and communities. Residents’ feelings of safety are not just statistics; they reflect the lived experiences of individuals and families across Victoria.
For further insights, the full Victorian Community Safety Perception Report is available at www.nhw.com.au. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we monitor how local authorities respond to these alarming perceptions of safety.
