The line provides Goulburn Valley people with an avenue to report non-urgent crimes without having to attend a police station, in a bid to free up front-line police.
While the service has processed thousands of crime reports since its inception, it has also recently taken on new functions to assist police to support the response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Among the close to 80 000 calls received since July 1 last year, close to 78 000 have been from people calling to report or provide information about possible public health order breaches.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Grainger said the service was contributing to a more realistic picture of offending across the state.
“It's never been easier for Victorians to report non-urgent crimes — many of which have traditionally gone unreported,” he said.
“We started out to take the pressure off front-line police and we've done exactly that. Along the way we've also found a way to adapt to emerging trends in the community.”
The most common crime types reported during the past 12 months were theft from motor vehicle, burglary, theft and property damage.
Community members can continue to report non-urgent crime and events, as well as breaches of Chief Health Officer directions by calling the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or submitting an online report at www.police.vic.gov.au/palolr
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