CENTRAL Victorians can now report non-urgent crimes and events online and via a 24-hour police assistance phone line.
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The Victoria Police initiative launches on Monday and will take reports or give advice at any time on non-urgent crimes and events anywhere in the state.
These crimes and events could include property damage, lost or found property, theft, neighbourhood disputes of a non-urgent nature, noise complaints, absence from residence registrations, and PartySafe registrations.
Acting Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the new phone line and online service would enhance the community's connection and access to Victoria Police.
"The Police Assistance Line is a dedicated, public phone number for the community to report or get advice on non-urgent crimes and events any time of the day," he said.
"These new avenues of contact to Victoria Police will be available 24/7, making it easier for the community to engage with police for non-emergency help, advice and support.
"These new channels will also reduce the amount of time police spend taking reports on non-urgent crimes, and will improve the way we prioritise and respond to these matters."
Acting Chief Commissioner Patton said people could call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or visit police.vic.gov.au.
"The Triple Zero number for police, fire and ambulance remains, and should be used if immediate attendance from these agencies is critical such as a threat to life or a crime occurring," he said.
"We're thrilled to provide the community with more avenues to access our services that are both simple and convenient methods as we continue to modernise Victoria Police."
Civilian staff will answer the Police Assistance Line calls at a contact centre in Ballarat, under the supervision of police officers.
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