Victoria’s targeted shopping centre policing operation will run until the end of the year after recording sharp falls in theft and violence, with new figures showing most shoppers feel safer as a result.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced on Sunday that the Allan Labor Government is investing $6.5 million to extend Operation Pulse, which deploys police and Protective Services Officers (PSOs) to major shopping centres across the state.
The operation has been running since December, covering centres including Northland,2 Eastland, Highpoint and Fountain Gate. In that time, Victoria Police have made 452 arrests and laid 971 charges, seized more than 100 weapons, and conducted 3,800 vehicle checks as part of highly visible patrols.
Data from the Shopping Centre Council of Australia at one centre found 84 per cent of customers said the programme made them feel safer while shopping, and 94 per cent of retail tenants wanted the operation continued. Stock losses from theft fell 73 per cent in January alone, while serious incidents involving violence, aggression and weapons dropped 50 per cent in December.
“We’re putting police and PSOs where the problems are, protecting you where you shop, work and spend time,” Premier Allan said.
Under the extension, Operation Pulse will continue without affecting existing police staffing or deployments, bringing the government’s total investment in the programme to nearly $9 million.
Minister for Police Anthony Carbines pointed to early intervention as central to the operation’s approach. “Operation Pulse is delivering results – Victoria Police is stopping crime before it begins, responding quickly and removing dangerous weapons before they can be used.”
The announcement sits alongside a broader package of crime reduction measures, including the Adult Time for Violent Crime legislation, now in effect, and a new Violence Reduction Unit. More than 18,000 knives and machetes were surrendered during a recent amnesty.
“We have new solutions to keep you safe, with PSOs in shopping centres, violence reduction in our schools, and Adult Time in the law,” Premier Allan said.
Victoria has more sworn police officers than any other state, the government says, with Labor citing continued investment in frontline services as the basis of its safety agenda.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
