Victoria Street backs Council motion and calls for coordinated action to restore safety and confidence
12 November 2025
The Victoria Street Business Association Inc (VSBA) welcomes Council’s motion regarding the Medically Supervised Injecting Room and calls for stronger, coordinated action to restore safety, confidence and pride across Victoria Street and North Richmond.
Victoria Street traders recognise the importance of health and support services for vulnerable people. However, local businesses, residents and visitors continue to experience serious public safety and amenity issues, including open drug use, street dealing, theft, antisocial behaviour and people sleeping rough in highly visible public areas.
VSBA President Ha Nguyen said the community needs practical action that balances health responses with safety, business confidence and neighbourhood renewal.
“Our community deserves safety, pride and a real chance to revive Victoria Street,” Ms Nguyen said.
“The injecting room may support some people, but the wider street environment has become increasingly difficult for traders, residents and visitors. Safety must come first for everyone.”
VSBA said the revitalisation of Victoria Street cannot succeed without a coordinated response from Council, the Victorian Government, Victoria Police, health services and community organisations.
“We are all committed to reviving the street, but we cannot take one step forward and two steps back,” Ms Nguyen said.
“Investment in the precinct must be supported by visible safety measures, better outreach, cleaner streets and stronger accountability.”
VSBA is calling for a practical precinct response that includes:
- A visible, community-focused police presence to deter crime and antisocial behaviour
- Targeted support for vulnerable people, including outreach, housing pathways, treatment and mental health services
- Improved street cleaning, lighting, wayfinding and public maintenance
- Stronger trader and resident engagement
- Transparent reporting so the community can track progress and outcomes
Victoria Street traders remain proud of the precinct and optimistic about its future. With clear leadership and coordinated action, VSBA believes Victoria Street can once again be a safe, vibrant and respected main street for everyone who lives, works, visits and invests in the area.
