rising youth crime in western melbourne suburb melton.

Residents in Melton, in Melbourne’s west, report growing fear as street violence and youth gang activity increasingly spill into their neighbourhoods. Over the past few years, many families say gangs wielding machetes and metal bars have attempted home invasions — sometimes targeting houses in the early hours while people slept. 

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One local woman described trying to defend her home when a group of assailants broke in; on another occasion, a group of 11 allegedly forced entry and smashed windows and doors while she and her children fled to safety. 

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Melton has become a hotspot for youth crime: the area accounts for a large share of knife‑related violent offences in Victoria. In the past two and a half years alone, five young people from Melton — aged 18 or under - were killed in street violence. 

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The pattern of violence, including home invasions, machete attacks, and gang‑related assaults, highlights the serious threat to public safety and community wellbeing. Victims — including families and children — may qualify for support under the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). Legal help from an experienced personal injury and assault lawyer can help survivors and families seek compensation for medical costs, trauma and long‑term impacts.