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Crime Moves Around. So Do We.

PSOs and police officers will continue to patrol some of Melbourne’s busiest shopping centres until the end of 2026, after the successful launch of Operation Pulse over summer.

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Bolstered Police and PSOs presence in shopping centres

Police data has identified that crime is on the move in shopping strips and centres Victorians use every day. The data also reveals that having a more visible uniform presence at shopping centres will help those working at and visiting the centres feel safer.

That’s why PSOs (Protective Services Officers) and police officers will continue to patrol some of Melbourne’s busiest shopping centres until the end of the year.

This extension follows the success of Operation Pulse which began in December 2025. This targeted operation has been credited with a 73 per cent drop in retail theft stock loss and a 50 per cent drop in violent events at those centres.

Find details of patrolled shopping centres on the Victoria Police public notices page.(opens in a new window)

While regular patrols are being conducted at these centres, the locations may change at a moment’s notice, as it will be guided by intelligence, crime data and calls for assistance.

All shifts as part of this operation will be voluntary duties undertaken by PSOs and police officers on planned rest or leave days, ensuring there will be no impact on PSO presence on the transport network or other resourcing.

Using police data to fight crime

Victoria has more than 1,200 PSOs who keep us safe. Currently, PSOs patrol train stations, trains, trams and major bus interchanges.

However, with crime moving around – so should PSOs. So that’s why they are joining forces with police officers for these shopping centre patrols. Retail theft, anti-social behaviour and weapons offences will be a focus of the operation.

More information

Visit the Victoria Police website to learn about staying safe when travelling on public transport(opens in a new window).

Visit the Transport Victoria website to learn more about the safety features in place at stations and onboard transport(opens in a new window).

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Updated 16 March 2026

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