By Tate Papworth
Braybrook has the dubious title of Melbourne’s burglary capital, according to research produced by the RACV.
The insurance company’s annual burglary statistics report revealed the burglary rate across the suburb to be one in 39 homes.
The number is a sharp increase on last year’s rate, which was one in 52 homes.
But it was better news across the municipality.
The 3020 postcode, which encompasses Albion, Sunshine, Sunshine North and Sunshine West, had a drop in burglaries, dropping to one in 64 homes, as opposed to one in 60 last year.
There was an even more significant drop in postcode 3021, which includes St Albans, Kealba, Kings Park and Albanvale.
Burglary rates for 3021 were one in 62 homes, a drastic drop from the one in 41 last year.
RACV general manager, Raymond Orre said there are a number of steps the community can take to lower the risk of burglary.
“Until crime rates are at zero, there is still reason for concern and more importantly, action,” he said.
“We found that one in five people surveyed … have sophisticated home security solutions but rarely or never keep them activated or in working order.
“Regular checks and system tests are a simple a way to maintain peace of mind in the home.”
He said strong community also plays a big role.
“Positively, one in five people already believe that their neighbours look out for them, and in turn, they look out for their neighbours.
“Notifying your neighbours when you’re out of the home, asking them to check your mail or put out your bins can be a helpful deterrent for criminals and helps to foster a stronger sense of community.”
