- Published:
- Tuesday 15 September 2026
The Carroll Labor Government is tackling the drivers of crime at the community level.
We are delivering serious consequences for violent crime – but we’re also getting in early to prevent it.
Through the Violence Reduction Unit and partnership with Blue Light Victoria, we are making a real difference.
New programs to prevent violence
We know that the right support at the right time can change a young person’s life.
The VRU is rolling out 17 new violence prevention programs in communities most affected by youth crime.
With a $10 million investment, the programs will deliver early intervention in schools and communities including:
- knife-crime prevention
- homework clubs
- youth mentoring
Programs like the Airtime Cobblebank Basketball Program will give young people a positive place to connect, to keep them away from bad influences.
Data and intelligence led investment
The people closest to the problem are often closest to the solution – we’ll back them to deliver it.
The VRU is also launching Ground Up, a new $13 million targeted grants program.
Ground Up will strengthen organisations already doing the work on the ground.
Investment will be guided by data and intelligence work so that support reaches the communities that need it most.
More mentoring for young people
This year’s Budget invests $9.5 million to boost Blue Light Victoria’s successful youth mentoring program.
Blue Light Victoria is a long-term community partner of Victoria Police providing one-on-one mentoring in schools.
Their programs address the issues of school disengagement, isolation and limited access to positive role models.
Nominations for schools are now open for Term 4.
Community safety, not cuts
Under Labor, community safety comes first.
Delivering serious consequences for violent crime while acting early to prevent it.
Jess Wilson’s Liberals opposed the Violence Reduction Unit, and in Coalition with One Nation, they will cut it.
Quotes attributable to Premier Ben Carroll
“This community in Melton suffered a terrible tragedy a year ago and we will never forget it.”
“We are delivering serious consequences for violent crime – but we’re also getting in early to prevent it.”
Quote attributable to Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny
“The VRU uses data and evidence to target what works to prevent violence before it happens.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Crime Prevention Paul Edbrooke
“Early intervention can change a young person’s path and make our communities safer.”
Quote attributable to Violence Reduction Unit CEO Andrea Davidson
“There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to violence prevention. By supporting local programs to deliver solutions that work for them, we can make communities safer for everyone.”