2 min read | By Clyde Sharady
Victoria’s commitment to tackling violence through prevention and early intervention was highlighted at the recent Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) Victoria Seminar: Prevention in Practice, which brought together government representatives, community organisations, researchers and frontline practitioners to explore practical strategies for creating safer communities.
Established in December 2025, the Victorian Violence Reduction Unit is leading a new approach that treats violence as a preventable public health issue rather than solely a criminal justice matter. The unit is working across multiple sectors to address the underlying causes of violence, including trauma, social disadvantage, family instability, education, employment and community disconnection. Its focus is on intervening early to reduce the risk of young people becoming involved in violence while strengthening long-term community safety.
A major highlight of the seminar was the keynote address by Karyn McCluskey, the internationally recognised former head of Scotland’s Violence Reduction Unit and former Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland. McCluskey shared lessons from Scotland’s internationally acclaimed violence reduction model, which has become a global example of how coordinated action across policing, health, education and community services can significantly reduce violent crime.
Scotland’s public health approach has attracted worldwide attention after contributing to sustained reductions in violent offending over the past two decades. Rather than relying exclusively on law enforcement, the model combines early intervention, mentoring, education, mental health support and community partnerships to address the root causes of violence before it escalates.
The Victorian seminar showcased how these principles are being adapted locally through partnerships between government agencies, schools, health services, sporting organisations and community groups. Presentations highlighted initiatives that provide positive pathways for young people, strengthen family support systems and build stronger connections between communities and service providers.
Speakers throughout the seminar emphasised that preventing violence is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration across all sectors of society. Community organisations, multicultural leaders, educators, families and youth services were recognised as essential partners in identifying risks early, supporting vulnerable young people and fostering safer, more resilient communities.
The seminar underscored Victoria’s growing investment in prevention-based strategies and reinforced the view that lasting reductions in violence are most likely to be achieved through coordinated action, evidence-based programs and strong community engagement. As the Violence Reduction Unit continues to expand its work, the emphasis remains firmly on preventing violence before it occurs rather than responding only after harm has been done.
