Tuesday, 22 September 2026

 Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (15:09): (2635) My question is to the Minister for Police. Crime is out of control in this state, with perpetrators now stealing copper wires from streetlights to sell on the black market. A constituent recently contacted me explaining that her neighbourhood streets have been pitch black for many weeks now, after thieves stole copper wire from the streetlights. Residents fear for their safety, especially the families who have young children. Despite contacting relevant authorities, residents have no idea when they will get the lights back on. This is not an isolated incident. Recent statistics show that Clyde North and Berwick are the top targets for thieves, with 27 and 23 incidents of copper-wire theft respectively since the start of this year. In an incident in Clyde up to 4 kilometres of wire was stolen. Minister, the Carroll Labor government’s gross mismanagement of crime has now left Victorians literally in the dark. What meaningful action will you take to address the surging copper theft in Victoria, especially in the south-east?