The recent release of the latest Crime Statistics Agency data has caused concern for a local MP.

For the 12 months ending in March 2025, the total of criminal incidents reported in Mitchell Shire rose by 26.5 per cent year on year, and neighbouring local government areas, such as Strathbogie Shire, have also seen an increase in reported offences.

State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said the data reflected a lack of control.

“These figures are a clear sign that Labor has completely lost control of law and order in our regional communities,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Crime is up, offenders are emboldened, and family violence continues to worsen — yet the Allan Government refuses to act.

“How many more reports will it take before we see a genuine response?

“The government’s failure to deliver stronger bail laws, properly resource police, or swiftly ban dangerous weapons like machetes has left our communities exposed.”

The crime data, which showed a rise of 20.1 per cent in incidents reported across the state, was released on Thursday, June 19.

The period of recorded incidents ended before the Victorian Government’s tightened bail laws came into effect.

The laws, which make it more difficult for alleged offenders to get out of remand on bail, were passed in parliament on Friday, March 21.

The first tranche has seen an increase of 46 more people on remand in Youth Justice and 609 more adults on remand in Victorian prisons this month compared to June last year.

“Any crime is unacceptable, and it’s why we’re continuing to introduce tough new laws to crack down on offenders,” a government spokesperson said.

“This includes the toughest bail laws in the country — putting community safety above all and delivering consequences for those who break the laws.

“These laws are working, with an increase in remand numbers — and more bail changes to come next month.

“We will continue to ensure our laws put community safety above all and back the important work of Victoria Police.”

Ms Cleeland said the government was failing to address the increasing criminal activity in the region, and that it was regional Victorians who were “paying the price”.

“We’re hearing about stolen cars in Violet Town, farm break-ins around Benalla and Colbinabbin, robberies in Murchison, and growing reports of property damage,” Ms Cleeland said.

“These aren’t isolated incidents — they’re signs of a system that isn’t working and a government that refuses to listen.

“Families and small businesses deserve to feel safe, but instead we have a justice system that prioritises offenders over victims and leaves regional communities behind.”

The latest Crime Statistics Agency data can be found at tinyurl.com/4m2kz8h9

For more information on the government’s new bail laws, visit tinyurl.com/5ca7a4fc

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Wednesday, 7th January 2026

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