Crime Statistics Agency Victoria released its annual report in December, which found the number of offences increased by 10.8 per cent across the state compared to the previous year.
In Campaspe, there was a small increase in total criminal incidents of 1.6 per cent, with a rise in stealing from retail stores and criminal damage recorded.
There were nearly 100 more incidents of retail theft across the region compared to last year, and 48 additional cases of criminal damage.
A 28.5 per cent rise in retail theft was recorded in Victoria, with 20,576 alleged offender incidents throughout the state.
Echuca saw a minor decrease in total incidents, but led the region in the number of offences, with 1973 recorded.
Kyabram, Rochester, Tongala and Rushworth all recorded increases, with 50 more offences in Rochester and 25 more in Rushworth over the year.
Houses and streets led the locations of recorded crime in Campaspe, while retailers and supermarkets saw the largest jumps of 35 and 53 more incidents, respectively.
Breaches of family violence orders decreased slightly across the region, but remained the second most common recorded offence.
Statewide, family incidents increased by 3.2 per cent, with the rate rising to 1484.9 incidents per 100,000 Victorians.
“The number of family violence serious assault recorded by Victoria Police is at its highest levels since 2016,” CSA chief statistician Fiona Dowsley said.
“A key contributor to the increase has been the new choke/strangle/suffocate family member offence, which came into effect in October 2024.”
Gannawarra saw a 2.7 per cent decrease in total recorded incidents, but an increase in breaches of family violence order, which was the top principal offence in the region.
In October, Gannawarra Shire Council chief executive Geoff Rollinson noted family violence incidents had doubled locally in the past four years.
The concerning rise prompted the council to launch the Gannawarra Free From Family Violence Action Plan 2025-2029, partnering with 11 agencies to implement prevention initiatives.
“Strong collaborative partnerships are essential to provide clear leadership across our Gannawarra community,” Mr Rollinson said.
“The data is clear that in 80 per cent of incidents, women are the victims of violence, and in many cases children are present to witness this violence, and we know that this has a lifelong impact.”
To view the plan, visit gsc.vic.gov.au/orange
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