Forum discusses new approach to reduce violent youth crime

THE state government is targeting violent youth crime through early intervention, with a specialised unit at the centre of its approach, and has introduced the model to local stakeholders at a Geelong forum.

Announced in November, Victoria’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) draws on similar models in Glasgow and London, where long-term reductions in violent crime have been achieved by intervening early.

Last week’s forum at Murran Hub brought together community organisations, service providers and local leaders from across Geelong and surrounding areas.

Attendees heard directly from the VRU about its role and priorities, with a strong focus on collaboration to prevent violence before it occurs.

A First Nations perspective underpinned the discussion, recognising the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the justice system and as victims of violence.

The forum highlighted the importance of culturally informed, community-led responses that reflect in local knowledge and lived experience.

“Aboriginal voices and leadership must be central to this work, and forums like this help make that happen,” parliamentary secretary for First Peoples and Geelong MP, Christine Couzens, said.

The VRU operates across government, working alongside police, education, health and community services.

The Victorian government points to results overseas, with violence reduction units linked to a 48 per cent drop in violent crime in Scotland and a 28 per cent decrease in knife-related injuries among young people in London.

“The Violence Reduction Unit is about listening to communities and working across services to stop harm before it escalates,” parliamentary secretary for violence reduction, Tim Richardson, said.