MORE RESOURCES FOR POLICE TO KEEP VICTORIANS SAFE

Wednesday, 22 April 2026

The latest crime data shows Australia’s toughest bail laws are working, and male youth offending is falling.

But crime rates are still too high.

That’s why the Allan Labor Government is giving Victoria Police more resources to keep Victorians safe.

These investments will make Australia’s largest police force even stronger.

Putting more police on the beat

We back the Chief Commissioner’s plan to get more officers out on the streets instead of stuck at their desk.

The Victorian Budget 2026/27 includes $62 million to recruit up to 200 reservists for administrative duties.

This will free up frontline officers – putting more police back in the community where they’re needed most.

Giving police the tools they need

Specialist police don’t have mobile devices that can access police systems, and it slows them down in the field.

The Budget invests $18.3 million for 3,000 mobile devices for specialist police.

This tech helps them in their everyday work – less time doing paperwork and more time protecting Victorians.

It means faster decisions on the ground with real-time information in their hands instead of back at the station.

Cracking down on illicit tobacco

The Budget invests $13.4 million to almost triple the number of Tobacco Licensing Victoria inspectors.

It will also support tough new shop closure powers, and new powers that give landlords the ability to kick out businesses selling illicit tobacco.

Smoking out illicit tobacco and the organised crime gangs it funds is all about keeping Victorians safe.

More PSOs on the transport network

These investments are on top of the $44 million in the Budget to deliver 50 additional PSOs.

PSO hours will expand, and they will be located when and where they’re needed, based on real police intelligence.

Only Labor has new solutions to make life easier, safer and more affordable.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Anthony Carbines

“Labor is delivering more officers on the street, more PSOs on trains, and new tech to help police do their job.”

“The latest crime data shows Australia’s toughest bail laws are working – but we’ve got more to do.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan

“Cracking down on illicit tobacco and the organised crime gangs it funds is all about keeping Victorians safe.”