The Allan Labor Government is backing Victoria Police with new tech and more resources to crack down on the organised crime network behind the arson attacks.
Victoria Police is already acting through Operation Eclipse - so far arresting 42 people with over 140 charges.
Police have requested further practical support to help them protect businesses and prevent these crimes, and we're delivering it.
'Eyes on the city'
Under a new investment, hospitality venues will now be able to opt into providing live CCTV feeds directly to police.
This gives police enhanced real-time vision of venues to improve response times and help prevent further attacks.
The Government will invest $5 million to boost tech in the State Command and Coordination Centre to deliver it.
The State Command and Coordination Centre, located at Victoria Police Headquarters, is staffed 24-hours-a-day and is currently deployed to support Operation Eclipse.
Victoria Police have asked Government for this targeted, practical improvement to strengthen their response.
Security upgrades for venues
The Government will establish a $10 million Hospitality Security Fund to help eligible venues upgrade their security.
This will support upgrades like modern CCTV, security doors, alarms and fire suppression - helping businesses protect their staff and the community.
For many venues, this Fund will also help them install cameras that can link into the State Command and Coordination Centre.
More support to prevent gang recruitment
An expert from the Violence Reduction Unit will also be embedded in the State Command and Coordination Centre.
They will work to disrupt the grooming and exploitation of young people being targeted by these crime syndicates.
We will use every lever at our disposal to find the organised crime lords allegedly behind this operation and cut off their recruitment.
Putting more police on the street
Legislation will be introduced to the Victorian Parliament today to back the Chief Commissioner's plan to get more officers on the streets.
It will mean Victoria Police can start freeing up more police by filling desk jobs with reservists.
The Victorian Budget 2026/27 includes $62 million to recruit up to 200 reservists for administrative duties.
This will free up frontline officers - putting more police back in the community where they're needed most.
As stated by Minister for Police Anthony Carbines
"These attacks are driven by gutless thugs exploiting young people. Victoria Police is working tirelessly to find these criminals - and they won't rest until they do."
"We're backing Victoria Police with more resources and getting more of them out on the streets."
As stated by Minister for Small and Family Business Natalie Suleyman
"This new package is another way that we're supporting businesses with safety measures - while Victoria Police are on the case."
