Reading list: Is Camberwell, Victoria Safe? 
Located in Melbourne's eastern suburbs, Camberwell is often lauded for its leafy streets and vibrant community. But how safe is this charming locale? This article delves into crime rates, community initiatives, and local insights to provide a comprehensive view on Camberwell's safety.

Key Takeaways

Overall Safety: Camberwell, Victoria, is generally considered a safe suburb with a relatively low crime rate, making it a desirable choice for residents and businesses.

Crime Statistics: Camberwell reported a crime rate of 41.43 per 1,000 people in 2023, with property crimes being the most common, particularly theft and burglary.

Community Initiatives: The Neighbourhood Policing model and various community safety programs enhance police visibility and address residents' safety concerns effectively.

Resident Feedback: Most residents feel secure in Camberwell, though some individual experiences highlight the need for continuous improvements in communication and safety resources.

Social Media Insights: Feedback from social media and community forums supports the perception of Camberwell as a friendly and cohesive suburb, welcoming to diverse demographics, including young professionals and the LGBTQ+ community.

Overview of Camberwell, Victoria

Camberwell, Victoria, is a picturesque suburb located 10 kilometers east of Melbourne's Central Business District. Renowned for its leafy streets and vibrant community, it offers residents a suburban haven with metropolitan proximity.

Location and Demographics

Camberwell sits within the City of Boroondara local government area, only 10 kilometers east of Melbourne's Central Business District. As of the 2021 census, Camberwell hosts a population of 21,965. The demographic makeup reveals that 65.8% of residents were born in Australia. Other significant populations include those from China (7.0%), England (3.3%), India (2.0%), New Zealand (2.0%), and Malaysia (1.7%). This diverse blend adds a rich cultural depth to the community.

Historical Background

First incorporated as the Boroondara Road District in 1864, Camberwell has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It became the Shire of Boroondara in 1871, later renamed the Shire of Camberwell and Boroondara in 1905, and finally designated a city in 1914. In 1994, Camberwell merged with the Cities of Hawthorn and Kew, constituting the current City of Boroondara.

Crime Rates in Camberwell

Camberwell in Victoria, known for its picturesque and vibrant community, maintains a relatively low crime rate. Detailed statistics provide a clear picture of its safety.

Comparison to Neighbouring Suburbs

Camberwell ranks 10th out of 100 Australian suburbs in terms of number and severity of crimes proportional to its population. This ranking indicates it's safer compared to many other areas. Neighbouring suburbs do not consistently show such favourable statistics, making Camberwell a preferred choice for many. The crime rate in Camberwell stands at 41.43 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower when compared to other regions.

Crime Rate: Camberwell reported a total of 910 crimes in 2023, translating to a crime rate of 41.43 per 1,000 people.

Violent Crimes: There were 69 violent crimes per 1,000 people, with 59 cases of assault and related offences reported in 2023. This relatively low incidence underscores the area's overall safety.

Property Crimes: Property crimes were more prevalent, with 631 instances reported. This results in 28.73 property crimes per 1,000 people.

Theft: Theft emerged as the most frequent type of property crime, accounting for 408 cases in 2023.

Burglary: There were 139 instances of burglary or break and enter in the same year.

Property Damage: Property damage was reported in 80 cases throughout 2023.

These detailed figures highlight the most common criminal activities, offering potential residents and businesses a comprehensive view of Camberwell's safety profile.

By understanding specific crime rates and types in Camberwell, individuals can make informed decisions about living or investing in this suburb.

Community and Safety Initiatives

Camberwell, Victoria, employs various community and safety initiatives to ensure the well-being of its residents.

Local Police and Community Engagement

At the heart of Camberwell's safety efforts is the Neighbourhood Policing model implemented by Victoria Police. This model improves police visibility and accessibility, enhancing local residents' sense of security. Police officers actively listen to the community's concerns and prioritise their responses based on these inputs. This engagement builds trust and strengthens community-police relations, creating a safer environment.

Safety Programs and Resources

Camberwell's safety initiatives include a range of programs and resources. One significant effort is the Community Sentiment Survey conducted annually to gather data on local safety concerns. The 2024 survey results, accessible on the Engage Victoria website and Victoria Police Eyewatch Facebook pages, guide local decision-making and crime prevention efforts. These initiatives ensure residents feel heard and their concerns are addressed systematically.

Resident Perspectives on Safety

Residents of Camberwell, Victoria generally consider the suburb safe, yet individual experiences highlight some specific areas of concern.

Surveys and Interviews

Recent surveys reflect residents' overall confidence in Camberwell's safety. A study on patient safety at local hospitals, though focused on medical settings, indirectly underlines the importance of clear communication and information-sharing in all aspects of safety. Residents point out that better information flow and reduced common errors can improve their sense of security. Additionally, interviews with young women, particularly those who've faced violence or homelessness, stress the necessity of emotional, social and physical safety. It's crucial to ensure safety across relationships, living situations, and community spaces.

Social Media and Community Forums Feedback

Social media and community forums offer a window into public perception regarding Camberwell's safety. Comments on forums like Tripadvisor indicate that Camberwell is fairly safe. Feedback suggests a growing community of young professionals, students, and an active gay community feel welcomed and secure. While there are occasional mentions of safety concerns, these sentiments are not dominant. Residents and visitors often praise the suburb’s friendly and cohesive atmosphere. This consensus is crucial for prospective residents contemplating a move to Camberwell.

Conclusion

Camberwell, Victoria, stands out as a picturesque and vibrant suburb with a rich historical background. Its relatively low crime rate, combined with effective community and safety initiatives, makes it an attractive option for potential residents and businesses. While individual experiences may vary, the general consensus among residents is that Camberwell offers a friendly and secure environment. The suburb's welcoming atmosphere, particularly for young professionals, students, and the gay community, further enhances its appeal. Overall, Camberwell remains a desirable place to live, balancing safety with a strong sense of community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Camberwell, Victoria?

As of the 2021 census, Camberwell, Victoria, has a population of 21,965 residents.

How does Camberwell's crime rate compare to neighbouring areas?

Camberwell has a relatively low crime rate compared to neighbouring areas, making it a safer choice for potential residents.

What is Camberwell's crime rate in 2023?

In 2023, Camberwell reported a total of 910 crimes, resulting in a crime rate of 41.43 per 1,000 people.

What types of crimes are most common in Camberwell?

The most common crimes in Camberwell include violent crimes, such as assault, and property crimes, which are even more prevalent.

What initiatives are in place to ensure safety in Camberwell?

Camberwell employs the Neighbourhood Policing model and conducts the Community Sentiment Survey to enhance community safety.

Do residents of Camberwell feel safe?

Generally, residents feel safe in Camberwell, though there are areas of concern. Clear communication and information-sharing are valued for improved security.

How do residents perceive safety in Camberwell?

Residents perceive Camberwell as a friendly and secure suburb, with positive feedback highlighting its welcoming atmosphere, especially for young professionals, students, and the gay community.

Are there any specific safety concerns in Camberwell?

While occasional safety concerns exist, the overall consensus is positive, with an emphasis on the suburb's friendly and secure environment.