The Community Crime Prevention Unit (CCPU) is conducting research projects focused on crime prevention and community safety.
Perceptions of safety and social cohesion
The CCPU commissioned research by the University of Sydney to better understand Victorians’ perceptions of crime and safety.
Almost 3000 Victorians across 70 communities participated in face-to-face surveys and focus group interviews during 2019 to explore these issues.
The findings revealed that frequent and intense worry about crime was not widespread in Victoria, and that the most effective way to reduce worry about crime in a broader community is through pro-social activities that encourage community cohesion and connectedness.
The large-scale research has led to the development of a survey tool which local government and organisations can use to accurately measure perceptions of safety and social cohesion at the neighbourhood level, as well as support policy makers in achieving better community safety outcomes.
To assist Local councils who are interested in using the survey tool, survey principles and tips have been developed with the lead researchers to assist with flexible but robust use of the survey tool.
If you are interested in using the perceptions of safety survey tool please contact CCPU to discuss the methodology that will best suit their needs. You can contact the unit by emailing: communitycrimeprevention@justice.vic.gov.au (External link).
You can access the full research report on the University of Sydney website (External link)
Public Safety CCTV
CCPU has engaged the Crime Statistics Agency to conduct research into the use of CCTV for public safety in Victoria. Building on a feasibility study conducted by the Australian Institute of Criminology, the research will focus on police operational and investigative use of CCTV.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
The CCPU has engaged RMIT University to conduct research into the use of CPTED in Victoria. The project will involve surveys and interviews with police, local government planners, urban designers and architects.
New York University Partnership
Community Crime Prevention has partnered with New York University (NYU) to learn about and share with communities the innovative approaches to community development that could apply in Victoria.
NYU is providing advice on the BetaGov model to help the Department of Justice and Community Safety empower funded projects in Victoria to quickly assess the impact and effectiveness of their work.
This advice will be shared across government departments and with police, local councils and community organisations to improve their ability to evaluate community safety and crime prevention initiatives.
Find out more about the NYU partnership.