Victoria’s freshly-graduated high school students will be letting their hair down across the state to celebrate Schoolies Week – but they’re being urged to party safely and look after their friends.
Minister for Police Lisa Neville joined Victoria Police and the Red Frogs to give partygoers and their parents vital safety tips to avoid ending up on the wrong side of the law during schoolies celebrations.
The celebrations – which run from 26 November to 11 December – will draw thousands of party-hungry students to hot spots including the Mornington Peninsula, Surf Coast and Bass Coast.
Young Victorians are being asked to take responsibility for themselves and their friends when partying in public spaces, and avoid violence and alcohol and drug-fuelled situations.
Victoria Police will boost their presence in and around hot spots including at licensed venues – targeting underage drinking, anti-social and drunken behaviour, and illicit drugs.
Last year, officers detected 134 offences across Cowes, Lorne, Portsea, Rye and Sorrento during the Schoolies period.
Police aren’t interested in just spoiling the fun. They’ll be working closely with partner agencies, local councils and school leavers in coastal communities to make sure everyone enjoys their well-earned rite of passage.
Red Frogs will provide chill out zones, entertainment and other support services for young people.
Police will also be looking out for non-school leavers – Toolies – trying to join in this year’s celebrations by travelling to popular Schoolies Week destinations to cause trouble.
If young people have any concerns during Schoolies Week – Victoria Police and Red Frogs will be there to help.
Schoolies celebrating in Victoria are encouraged to register with to access great benefits including Red Frogs cook-ups, local events and free buses home.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Lisa Neville
"Finishing high school is a huge life achievement and schoolies is a well-earned rite of passage – but no one wants to have their fun ruined by drugs, alcohol or violence."
"Police don’t want to have to spoil the fun – but they’ll be there to ensure it’s a safe week of celebrations."
"Good friends look out for each other – and that’s what young people should be doing. Kick start your summer holiday safely and remember to seek help if you need it."
Reviewed 19 August 2020