Victoria Street backs Council motion on injecting room; calls for coordinated action to restore safety and confidence
Melbourne, 12 November 2025
The Victoria Street Business Association Inc (VSBA) welcomes and supports Council’s motion regarding the medically supervised injecting room and reaffirms our commitment to a safer, more vibrant Victoria Street.
“We’re here tonight to speak in support of the council motion — because our community deserves safety, pride, and a real chance to revive Victoria Street.
First, the injecting room has brought chaos to North Richmond. Safety must come first — for everyone. What we’re seeing is Richmond becoming a place where people steal, deal, and inject openly. While the MSIR helps some people, it also attracts many who don’t use the service or who aren’t suitable clients. This creates constant disruption and fear for local residents and businesses.
Second, we are all committed to reviving our street — the council, the community, local businesses, and the Victorian Government. But this project can’t succeed if we take one step forward and two steps back. Right now, even in front of a $750,000 investment, people are sleeping rough outside. That’s not a message that attracts investment or confidence.
Finally, we’re asking for leadership and action. We want a stronger, coordinated approach — community police presence, better support for vulnerable people, and renewed pride in our streets.
Together, we can make Victoria Street a place that’s safe, vibrant, and respected — for everyone who lives and works here.”
The VSBA is ready to work with Council, the Victorian Government, local residents, and service providers on a practical plan that delivers real improvements. Key priorities include:
A visible, community-focused police presence to deter street crime and antisocial behavior.
Targeted support for vulnerable people, including assertive outreach, pathways to housing, and access to treatment and mental health services.
Precinct amenity upgrades — cleaning, lighting, wayfinding, and maintenance — to restore pride and confidence for traders, residents, and visitors.
Transparent engagement and reporting so the community can track outcomes and hold all parties accountable.
Victoria Street’s traders are proud of our precinct and optimistic about its future. With clear leadership and coordinated action, we can deliver a safe, prosperous main street for everyone.
Media contact
Ha Nguyen hello@victoriastreet.org.au