Overview
Z Protection Services
Ballarat has recorded a significant increase in crime rates in 2024, making it one of the most concerning areas in Victoria.
The increase in criminal incidents (+16.3%), offences recorded (+15.4%), alleged offender incidents (+16.1%), and victim reports (+18.4%) highlights the growing crime problem.
Key findings include:
10,113 criminal incidents reported (highest in years)
13,513 total offences recorded
4,038 alleged offender incidents (suspect-related incidents)
54.2% of cases remain unsolved
33.1% increase in family violence cases
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This report provides an interactive analysis of crime trends, high-risk areas, demographics of offenders and victims, and the role of private security in crime reduction.
Read Also: Our Security Services in Ballarat
Crime Trends in Ballarat (2024)
According to the Crime Statistics, Ballarat reported:
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Total criminal incidents: 10,113
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Increase from 2023: +16.3%
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Incident rate per 100,000 population: Highest in Victoria
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Unsolved cases: 54.2%
Top 5 Criminal Offences
The top 5 Criminal Offences in Ballarat in wee,
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Stealing from a motor vehicle.
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Other theft offences.
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Criminal damage.
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Breach of family violence order.
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Retail theft.
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Read Also: Explore our Security SOPS and Templates
Read Also: Is Ballarat a Safe Place to Live?
Key Locations for Crime:
Observation:
The high rate of unsolved cases (54.2%) and the rise in theft-related crimes indicate growing concerns about public safety and law enforcement effectiveness​.
Victim Reports
The Victim Reports Dashboard shows:
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Total victim reports: 8,207
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Increase from 2023: +18.4%
Observation:
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Young adults (18-34 years) are the most affected age group.
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Assaults and thefts are major concerns, with sexual offences also rising​.
Observation:
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Most perpetrators are aged 25-44, suggesting family-related violence in adult households.
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Breach of family violence orders is one of the top 5 crimes, indicating poor enforcement​.
High-Risk Areas in Ballarat
Observation:
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Ballarat Central has the highest crime rate, mainly due to theft and property-related crimes.
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Wendouree and Sebastopol are also crime hotspots​.
Key Graphical Analysis
How Private Security Can Help Reduce Crime
With crime rates rising sharply in Ballarat, private security is becoming an essential part of crime prevention strategies. While law enforcement plays a crucial role, private security services can offer additional protection to businesses, homes, and public spaces, ensuring a faster response, better surveillance, and increased deterrence of criminal activities.
The Role of Private Security in Crime Reduction
Crime Prevention Through Visible Deterrence
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Security patrols and presence discourage criminals,
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Criminals are less likely to target businesses and residential areas with visible security.
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Retail stores, shopping centers, and high-crime suburbs like Ballarat Central & Wendouree can benefit from 24/7 private security patrols.
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Businesses with security guards and surveillance systems report lower break-ins and theft cases.
Faster Response to Crimes & Emergencies
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Private security reacts to crimes when police is busy or overloaded with serious criminal activities.
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While police may take time due to high caseloads and critical criminal incidents, private security teams respond immediately to emergencies, reducing property damage and theft losses.
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Businesses in Ballarat facing high theft rates—such as retail stores, service stations, and car dealerships—can deploy mobile patrol units for faster protection.
Advanced Surveillance and Monitoring
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AI-powered security cameras & smart monitoring
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Private security firms install and monitor CCTV, facial recognition, and AI-driven camera systems to monitor and track suspicious activity in real time.
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Security cameras connected to alarm systems can alert businesses & alarm response teams instantly if a break-in or theft occurs.
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In Ballarat’s crime hotspots (Ballarat Central, Wendouree, Sebastopol, Redan, Alfredton), smart surveillance systems in business hubs can drastically improve safety.
Protection for Businesses & Retail Shops
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Businesses are often the biggest crime targets
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Theft, burglary, and vandalism affect shopping centers, fuel stations, and retail stores the most.
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On-site security guards at retail outlets can stop shoplifters and prevent robberies.
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Mall security personnel in places like Bridge Mall & Delacombe Town Centre and Stockland Wendouree can reduce incidents of retail theft.
Support for Law Enforcement & Investigations
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Helping police with evidence & crime prevention strategies
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Private security teams can collect and share surveillance footage with police to help identify criminals.
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Security firms track crime patterns and collaborate with local authorities to create safer neighborhoods.
Private Security Services Needed in Ballarat
Conclusion
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Ballarat is a safe and affordable place to live compared to Melbourne but has higher crime rates than Bendigo.
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Public transport is moderate, with room for improvement.
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Teen crime remains an issue, particularly in property offenses and public order cases.
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Education facilities are well-established, supporting young families.
Ballarat is generally a safe place to live, with strong community engagement and liveability factors. However, challenges remain in crime hotspots, housing aƯordability, and social inequality.
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Safer Suburbs: Alfredton, Lucas, Lake Wendouree
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Higher Crime Areas: Wendouree, Sebastopol, Ballarat East
With proper investment in policing, infrastructure, and community services, Ballarat can continue to be a thriving, safe regional city.
Final Thought
Ballarat’s historical resilience and modern urban planning provide a strong foundation for continued safety improvements. While challenges exist, the city’s proactive crime prevention strategies and community engagement make it a promising place for residents and businesses.