Melbourne’s central business district is facing a growing crisis as business owners plead for greater government and police intervention amid a sharp rise in violent crime that is beginning to damage the city’s global image and tourism economy.
New analysis by Victoria’s state opposition reveals that surging crime rates are coinciding with a downturn in visitor numbers, suggesting a possible link between public safety and declining tourism.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Victoria recorded just 173,380 visitors in August 2025, while New South Wales attracted 293,030, widening the gap between the two states. Opposition figures blame the Victorian government’s budget cuts to tourism, but also point to a wave of violent offences tarnishing Melbourne’s reputation as a safe destination.
Between June 2024 and June 2025, robberies in Victoria rose by 17.75%, burglaries by 20.41%, and motor vehicle thefts by more than 56%. In stark contrast, NSW recorded declines across nearly all categories.
Liberal spokesman Richard Riordan said the figures were alarming. “Victoria should be a premium tourism destination, but the numbers show visitors are going elsewhere. People simply don’t feel safe,” he said.
That sense of insecurity is being felt daily by those who live and work in Melbourne’s CBD. Local traders describe an atmosphere of fear and neglect, saying they face constant threats and feel abandoned by the government.
Christian, a café worker on Degraves Street, told the Herald Sun that Melbourne is “not in a good state.” He said he had recently been threatened with his life by a stranger in broad daylight. “If we call the police, they either don’t show up or arrive 40 minutes later,” he said.
Amber, who owns a retail store in Melbourne Central, said crime has become so frequent that customers are afraid to shop. “Groups of youths come in wearing masks and hoodies, stealing and terrifying people,” she said.
Jewellery business owner Abby described conditions as “ridiculous,” noting that in the last 18 months, thefts and assaults have skyrocketed. “The government doesn’t seem to care. Police need more powers to protect workers instead of supervising protests,” she added.
Many businesses report locking doors or installing new barriers for safety, while others say their staff — particularly young women — no longer feel secure working late.
As violent incidents continue to make headlines, pressure is mounting on the Allan government to take decisive action. Traders warn that if authorities fail to restore order, Melbourne risks losing not only its tourists but also its reputation as Australia’s most liveable city.
