A recent incident has heightened concerns about safety in Melbourne’s shopping centres amid a surge in youth crime. Rochelle Currie, a local mother, shared her alarming experience after a retail worker advised her to avoid shopping centres with her children unless absolutely necessary. This warning comes as Melbourne grapples with increasing reports of violence and theft involving teenagers.
In a TikTok video, Ms. Currie recounted a frightening encounter at Westfield Doncaster Shopping Centre. Her husband and their young daughter were in the centre when a large group of young men, dressed in black and with their faces covered, charged towards them. “My husband grabbed my daughter and pulled her to the side just as the group ran past,” she explained. Witnesses described chaos, with shoppers screaming and trying to escape the scene.
Ms. Currie expressed her dismay at this escalating trend. “I love Melbourne; I have lived here my entire life. But juvenile crime is getting out of control,” she stated. The video resonated with many viewers, prompting others to share their own experiences with youth crime in the city. One mother lamented the need to limit shopping trips to school hours for safety reasons, highlighting the pervasive fear among parents.
The situation has sparked broader discussions. A man described the impact of lockdowns on youth engagement, suggesting that many teenagers are disengaging from education and becoming involved in criminal activities. Others pointed to a lack of community support and resources, advocating for increased funding for youth programs and employment opportunities.
According to the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA), the previous financial year saw a significant rise in crime at major Melbourne shopping centres, with 5,901 reported incidents—an increase of 20 percent compared to the previous year. Theft accounts for a substantial portion of these offences, rising nearly 30 percent and comprising two-thirds of total crimes. Notably, Bayside Frankston led the list with 105 crimes against a person, followed closely by Northland and Westfield Fountain Gate.
In response to the escalating situation, Victoria Police launched a 90-day operation on December 8, 2025, deploying Protective Services Officers to deter crime and enhance safety in shopping centres. The operation targets Highpoint, Northland, Westfield Fountain Gate, and Eastland, aiming to restore a sense of security for shoppers.
Angus Nardi, Chief Executive of the Shopping Centre Council of Australia, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “The increased police presence and visibility will provide community assurance and help ensure safety following recent increases in criminal incidents,” he stated. With heightened safety measures, including security guards now wearing “stab-proof” vests, efforts are underway to reassure the public that shopping centres remain safe places.
As Melbourne confronts these challenges, the call for community engagement and proactive measures continues to grow. Local residents are hopeful that with increased police presence and more support for youth initiatives, safety in their beloved city can be restored.
