- Published:
- Tuesday 30 June 2026 at 9:30 am
Labor is investing in early intervention to stop crime before it starts through the nation-leading Violence Reduction Unit.
The model is based on Scotland’s successful approach to violence prevention.
It helped cut violent crime by 60 per cent, with the biggest reductions seen among young people.
That’s why Minister Kilkenny today welcomed the architect of Scotland's VRU to Melbourne.
Karyn McCluskey transformed Scotland’s response to violence and is now working with Victoria to strengthen our approach.
Karyn will headline the VRU’s inaugural seminar, bringing together government and community organisations.
Its focus is simple: turn evidence into action and stop violence before it starts.
The forum will also showcase the prevention work already underway here in Victoria.
This includes lived-experience mentoring, gang intervention programs and early intervention initiatives that connect young people with support sooner.
Labor’s plan is working with the latest crime statistics showing the youth offending rate down by six per cent.
Labor has now given the VRU a permanent home in our justice system backed with $30 million in this year’s Budget.
Jess Wilson’s Liberals opposed the Violence Reduction Unit and they’ll cut it.
Only Labor has new solutions to make life easier, safer and more affordable.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Violence Reduction Sonya Kilkenny
“We’re reducing violent youth crime with serious consequences and early interventions.”
“While the Liberals want to cut the VRU, we’re backing proven approaches that have worked overseas to keep Victorians safe.”
Quote attributable to Violence Reduction Unit CEO Andrea Davidson
"The evidence is clear: we reduce violence by preventing it. That means backing communities, supporting young people early and tackling the causes before harm occurs."
Quote attributable to Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland Karyn McCluskey
“Scotland showed what's possible when we treat violence as preventable. It's encouraging to see Victoria adapting that approach and investing in earlier intervention."