Lyndhurst, along with Narre Warren North, was featured in a list of crime hotspots released by the RACV last week.By Callan Date
NARRE Warren North has been ranked as the second most burgled suburb in Melbourne.
With a burglary rate of one in every 15 homes, the area is a major crime hotspot according to the RACV statistics.
Narre Warren East was coupled together with Narre Warren North at the number two rank.
The annual review was done after an analysis of Victoria Police and ABS Census figures by RACV Home Security.
However, the accuracy of the figures has been questioned by Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan.
Fellow City of Casey suburb Lyndhurst came in at number 38 on the list – with one in 39 houses burgled.
Parkville, near Melbourne’s CBD, was at the top of the list.
Metropolitan Melbourne experienced a 4 per cent burglary increase from last year.
RACV home security general manager Peter Brindley said burglary hot spots were starting to emerge across the suburbs.
“We are urging householders living in these high-risk suburbs to review their security arrangements,” Mr Brindley said.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late is the key message,” he said.
The crime list has sparked calls from Federal MP Jason Wood for action to be taken.
“How much does the crime rate have to increase in La Trobe before the Labor State Government will invest some money and resources into the local area,” Mr Wood said.
The La Trobe MP said the local crime rate was appalling and residents were fed up with the situation.
“I am so frustrated by the State Government’s apathy on this issue. Community members have a basic right to be safe.
“We need a much greater investment of resources in the area. Let’s start with a greater police presence.
“The police in La Trobe are doing a great job but they really do have their hands tied behind their backs because the State Labor Government won’t give them the extra support they need,” Mr Wood said.
Mr Brindley said there were many contributing factors to burglaries, including:
• an adjoining laneway offering burglars easy access or an escape route;
• lack of visible security measures, such as a monitored alarm or strong window/door locks;
• homes in a quiet or secluded area;
• obvious display of wealth;
“By being aware of the risks, it is much easier to identify a number of simple steps that can be taken to improve your level of home security and deter potential burglars,” Mr Brindley said.
Mr Donnellan said Mr Wood’s comments were off the mark.
“Jason Wood should know better. He is a former policeman and is aware of how statistics are collated. I am sure he is aware of the conflicts an insurer has in making such statements,” Mr Donnellan said.
“The RACV is a house insurer and I would question its independence in making such comments.”
