Despite a strong community atmosphere, Richmond continues to face challenges related to petty theft, home burglary, and acts of vandalism — particularly in high-traffic zones such as Swan Street, Bridge Road, and the areas surrounding the Richmond and East Richmond train stations.

While Richmond remains a desirable suburb for many, certain environmental and structural factors increase the likelihood of criminal activity in residential areas. Among the most common contributing factors are:

🚶‍♂️ High pedestrian traffic, which allows intruders to blend in unnoticed and observe homes without raising suspicion.

🏚️ Many older homes still lack adequate or modern security systems, making them easy targets for experienced burglars.

📅 Crime rates tend to spike during public holidays and major local events, such as sports games at the nearby Melbourne Cricket Ground, when homes are more likely to be left unattended.

SIPKO’s local security specialists have conducted in-depth assessments across Richmond and discovered that detached houses and townhouses — particularly those without visible CCTV cameras or signage — are often prioritized by burglars. Criminals typically look for the path of least resistance, and an unmonitored property is often the easiest target.

Residents are strongly encouraged to evaluate their home security setup and consider visible deterrents like surveillance systems, motion-activated lighting, and remote monitoring solutions to reduce the risk of intrusion.