That’s the question RACV and Neighbourhood Watch want Victorian farmers to answer as part of the new ‘How Safe Is My Farm’ initiative.
The latest figures from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency (see table) show more than 2000 offences were committed on Victorian farms in 2022, with theft — including theft of firearms and livestock — accounting for more than 60 per cent of crimes.
‘How Safe Is My Farm’ is an Australian-first Neighbourhood Watch initiative, developed with Victoria Police and supported by RACV, that helps Victorian farmers identify what they can do to reduce the risk of crime on their properties.
It includes an online tool that asks a series of questions about security and gives users a personalised report on how safe their farm is.
Victoria Police will attend Wimmera Field Days to promote ‘How Safe Is My Farm’ on behalf of Neighbourhood Watch on March 7 to 9 at Longerenong near Horsham.
Neighbourhood Watch Victoria chief executive officer Bambi Gordon encouraged all Victorian farmers to use the online tool and find out how secure their property is.
“Back in the day, we left doors open and didn’t expect that we could be a victim. Times have changed,” Ms Gordon said.
“But on the upside, we know that theft is often opportunistic. If we can remove the opportunity, we can prevent crime from occurring.”
She said ‘How Safe Is My Farm’ teaches farmers how to do the simple things to secure their properties.
To use the tool and find out more, visit: howsafeismyplace.com.au/farm/
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