fitzroy street cctv year one evaluation report march 2018 18 fitzroy street cctv year one... ·...

\

Insert picture here

Fitzroy Street CCTV

Year One Evaluation Report

March 2018

2

City of Port Phillip Fitzroy Street CCTV Year One Evaluation Report – March 2018

Contents

1 Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Project Background ......................................................................................................................... 3

1.2 Evaluation Design ........................................................................................................................... 3

1.3 Determining Attribution .................................................................................................................... 4

1.4 Interim Findings ............................................................................................................................... 5

1.5 Street Optimism .............................................................................................................................. 8

1.6 Next Steps....................................................................................................................................... 8

2 Evaluation Methodology ............................................................................................................... 9

2.1 Project Initiation ............................................................................................................................... 9

2.2 Project Changes .............................................................................................................................. 9

2.3 Evaluation Design ......................................................................................................................... 10

2.4 Intercept Surveys .......................................................................................................................... 10

2.5 Stakeholder Interviews .................................................................................................................. 11

2.6 Council Statistics ........................................................................................................................... 11

2.7 Crime Statistics ............................................................................................................................. 11

2.8 Determining Attribution .................................................................................................................. 12

2.9 Data Limitations ............................................................................................................................ 13

3 Interim Results ............................................................................................................................ 15

3.1 Key Evaluation Question 1: To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the perception of safety in Fitzroy Street? ................................................................................................................. 15

3.2 Key Evaluation Question 2: To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the vibrancy and appeal of Fitzroy Street, St Kilda? ................................................................................................. 19

3.3 Key Evaluation Question 3: To what degree did the installation of CCTV reduce crime on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and neighbouring streets? .................................................................................... 26

3.4 Key Evaluation Question 4: To what degree did the installation of CCTV influence how police prevent and respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda? ........................................... 33

3.5 Key Evaluation Question 5: To what extent did the installation of CCTV influence diverse social participation in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda? ......................................................................................... 40

4 Attachment 1: Evaluation Plan Summary .................................................................................. 43

5 Attachment 2: Stakeholder Interview Questions ....................................................................... 44

6 Attachment 3: Crime Data Map Surrounding Streets ................................................................ 45

7 Attachment 4: Intercept Survey Confidence Interval Calculations .......................................... 46

8 Attachment 5: Recorded Criminal Offences .............................................................................. 47

9 Attachment 6: Summary of Victoria Police CCTV Use .............................................................. 48

10 Attachment 7: CCTV Survey Questions ..................................................................................... 49

11 Attachment 8: Crime Clearance Rates ....................................................................................... 50

3


1 Executive Summary

1.1 Project Background

Council, at its meeting 11 August 2015, endorsed the motion to purchase, install, maintain and

evaluate the effectiveness of up to ten cameras, high definition CCTV surveillance system on

Fitzroy Street, St Kilda as part of a suite of crime prevention, streetscape renewal and village

activation strategies, for a trial period of 2 years.

The system is, in the main, passively monitored by Victoria Police. When resources and priorities

permit, the system is actively monitored.

Council obtained State Government funding through the Department of Justice Public Safety

Infrastructure Fund to contribute to the installation of CCTV. Seven CCTV cameras were

installed along Fitzroy Street from Grey Street down to the Upper Esplanade.

The project implementation costs were approximately $402,000, with $246,250 provided by the

Victorian Government and Council contributing $156,406. There are ongoing project

management, maintenance and evaluation costs associated with the Fitzroy Street CCTV Trial

which the Council is responsible for funding.

1.2 Evaluation Design

The purpose of the CCTV Fitzroy Street evaluation is to assess to what degree the installation of

CCTV influenced the community perception of safety, street vibrancy and crime. This report

analyses and summarises several datasets to answer the key evaluation questions:

1. To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the perception of safety in

Fitzroy St, St Kilda?

2. To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the vibrancy and appeal of


3. To what degree did CCTV reduce crime on Fitzroy St, St Kilda and neighbouring

streets?

4. To what degree did the installation of CCTV influence how police prevent and

respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

5. To what extent did the installation of CCTV influence diverse social participation in


The report is guided by the Evaluation Plan CCTV Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and the Evaluation

Baseline report that was completed in March 2016. The evaluation plan outlines which data

sources inform the consideration of the key evaluation questions and articulates how attribution

and contribution can be applied. A range of data sources have been selected to cross check

information and improve the validity of conclusions. A list of data sources is provided at

Attachment 1.

The Fitzroy Street CCTV Year One Evaluation Report compares the data to the baseline report to

assess the impact of the installation and operations of CCTV in Fitzroy Street at this interim point

in time.

4


1.3 Determining Attribution

The key challenge of the evaluation is that of determining attribution and contribution. When

assessing attribution, the study considered whether the CCTV caused the observed outcomes.

This is pertinent as the timing of the installation of the CCTV occurred soon after streetscape

works, community partnership activities and more general shifts in population and economic

activity. St Kilda, being a seasonal entertainment precinct, also experiences different social

participation at different times of the year.

Information was gathered that seeks to clarify whether the CCTV caused or contributed to the

observed outcomes. Stakeholder Interviews included specific questions to gather informed views

regarding attribution and contribution of CCTV to changes measured.

There were many changes in and around Fitzroy Street between 2016 and 2017 when the CCTV

became operational. The following changes will need to be considered as potentially influencing

any changes identified in this evaluation.

• The Gatwick Rooming House in Fitzroy Street closed in May 2017

• Channel Nine purchased the Gatwick Hotel for The Block television show

• Sacred Heart Mission and Launch Housing received additional funding

• Announcement of the Pride Centre in Fitzroy Street

• Alanara Rooming House on the corner of Acland Street and Fitzroy Street has been closed

for renovations

Despite the changing nature of Fitzroy Street between 2016 and 2017, when the CCTV became

operational, there has been no significant changes to social participation in the precinct.

Improved perceptions of safety therefore could be better attributed to factors outside of the broad

demographic of people who continue to frequent the area.

Some measures, such as how the installation of CCTV improves Victoria Police response to

crime, are more direcly attributable to the results than others such as improving perceptions of

safety and the vibrancy of the street.

A limitation of this evaluation is that there is no comparison area to be able to measure

changes in the street after the installation of CCTV.

In this evaluation it was decided that the clearest, most reliable information will be gained by

describing and measuring the community perception of safety, street vibrancy and reported

crime before and after the installation of CCTV. There is not another street based precinct,

featuring entertainment venues, located in a key tourist route with a high proportion of services

for those experiencing significant disadvantage (that is not having CCTV installed). The

character of Fitzroy Street St Kilda is unique and there was not a comparable area of which to

make reliable comparison.

5


1.4 Interim Findings

1.4.1 Key Evaluation Question 1 – To what degree did the installation of CCTV

improve the perception of safety in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

• Strong agreement from all stakeholders interviewed that the installation of

CCTV has improved safety perceptions significantly.

• The intercept survey methodology run both before and after the trial

indicated only a slight increase in perceptions of safety as measured by

intercept surveys before and after the installation of CCTV in Fitzroy Street

after 12 months operations.

Perceptions of safety were measured by intercept surveys conducted before and after the

installation of the CCTV system. The results show a small increase in perceptions of

safety from 2015 to 2018.

There was strong consensus from all stakeholders interviewed that since the installation

of CCTV that the safety perceptions in the street have improved significantly.

Each stakeholder reported that anti-social behaviour, such as large groups of people

loitering in the area, has dramatically decreased which contributes to people feeling safer

in the area.

1.4.2 Key Evaluation Question 2 - To what degree did the installation of CCTV

improve the vibrancy and appeal of Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

• The appeal of Fitzroy Street has improved since the installation of CCTV.

• The vibrancy in the street remains relatively low as shown in shop vacancy

rates and relatively low visitation.

There has been an increase in shop vacancies in the street since the installation of CCTV,

with a total of 22 vacant shops recorded in June 2017. There was a strong theme from all

stakeholders regarding the high number of vacant shops contributing to the lack of

vibrancy in the area.

The pedestrian counts have remained consistent in the street before and after the

installation of CCTV. The evening between 5pm and 11pm continues to be the most

common time for people to visit Fitzroy Street. Since the installation of CCTV, there are

more people visiting the area in the afternoon. People are continuing to spend one or

more hours in the street, this has not changed since the installation of CCTV.

Visiting cafes, bars and restaurants continues to be the top reason people visit the

precinct. There has been a slight decrease in spending in the precinct with less people

spending $30 or more in the precinct compared to the baseline report before the

installation of the cameras.

Since the installation of CCTV, more people are coming to the street to socialise with their

friends, with this being rated as the second highest reason people visit the street.

Many stakeholders interviewed reported that the street is more appealing since the

installation of CCTV because the street feels safer and there is a slight increase in activity

in the area.

6


1.4.3 Key Evaluation Question 3 - To what degree did CCTV reduce crime on Fitzroy

Street, St Kilda and neighbouring streets?

• There have been minimal changes (1%) to the crime statistics in Fitzroy

Street or surrounding streets since the installation of CCTV.

• There has been a slight increase in the drug offence category in surrounding

streets. Whilst in Fitzroy Street there has been a decrease in recorded drug

offences.

Recorded cime data shows that there has been 1% reduction in total crimes since the

installation of CCTV (for the comparison periods of June to August and January to March

between 2016 and 2017).

Property and deception offences continue to the highest offence type category for both

Fitzroy Street and surrounding streets.

The only change identified was regarding drug offences in Fitzroy Street and surrounding

streets. There was a slight decrease in recorded drug offences in Fitzroy Street since the

installation of CCTV. In surrounding streets, a slight increase in drug offences was

identified since the installation of CCTV.

There has been little change to reporting of graffiti or streetscape amenity in the street or

surrounding areas to Port Phillip City Council.

There was a noticeable decrease in the amount of customer enquiries and complaints

made to Council regarding anti-social behaviour and safety concerns in Fitzroy Street

after the installation of CCTV.

All stakeholders reported observing a decrease in crime in the area with many reporting

less visible violence and anti-social behaviour in the precinct.

Little Grey Street, Grey Street, Jackson Street and Newton Court Reserve were all areas

mentioned regarding an increase in crime in neighbouring streets. Views were mixed from

stakeholders as to whether CCTV was responsible for the perceived increase in crime in

nearby streets.

7


1.4.4 Key Evaluation Question 4 - To what degree did the installation of CCTV

influence how police prevent and respond to crime in and around Fitzroy

Street, St Kilda?

• The installation of CCTV has made a significant improvement to the way

police prevent and respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

Victoria Police report that the installation of CCTV has made a significant improvement to

the way police prevent and respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. This

is demonstrated via case studies from Victoria Police that highlight the way in which

responses have changed since the installation of CCTV such as real-time updates to

attending units, escalation or de-prioritisation of incidents, verifying emergency Triple ‘000’

calls and evidence collection.

Victoria Police describe one of the main benefits of CCTV is the ability to monitor

situations and respond proactively to incidents. This was less possible before the

installation of CCTV.

There has been a small improvement in crime clearance statistics for Fitzroy Street since

the installation of CCTV with a higher rate of solved crime across all offence categories.

There was strong agreement from all stakeholders that the installation of CCTV has

dramatically improved the way police prevent and respond to crime in and around the

precinct.

1.4.5 Key Evaluation Question 5 - To what extent did the installation of CCTV

influence diverse social participation in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

• There have been no significant changes to social participation in Fitzroy

Street since the installation of CCTV in the first 12 months of operations.

Demographics of survey respondents in Fitzroy Street remain like the baseline report.

▪ 35 – 49 years most represented category

▪ high proportion of respondents lived in the St Kilda Neighbourhood.

▪ Over half of respondents live in the municipality.

▪ Over 20% visit Port Phillip for recreation

Stakeholders did identify they have observed a slight shift with families and a diversity in

patrons returning to the area. However, there continues to be a large proportion of young

adults and backpackers that frequent the street.

A strong view from each stakeholder interviewed was that the shop offering in the street

needs to be enhanced to attract a diversity of patrons back to the street.

8


1.5 Street Optimism

There is a strong sense of positivity and optimism for Fitzroy Street from all stakeholders

interviewed. One stakeholder mentioned that the situation on the street now “gives us a good

platform to move forward.”

From a Victoria Police point of view, they hope that will not be attending as often and the street

will reach a point of “self-regulation.” Fitzroy Street will continue to be a high-risk priority area for

Victoria Police because of the high number of liquor licenses in the area.

Another stakeholder said there is there is a lot of positivity among the local community with all the

changes in the street. Another stakeholder confirmed this by saying there is a general sense of

hope that things will continue to improve in the street.

“We are optimistic with the Pride Centre, there are exciting opportunities with the Block

at the Gatwick. We all accept that we live in the area with activity – there will always be

loud motorbikes and issues from the late-night venues. The main thing now is that the

offering needs to step up.”

All stakeholders interviewed mentioned the opportunities coming to the street including the Pride

Centre and the Block as being positive additions to the precinct.

1.6 Next Steps

This report summarises the interim findings of the two-year evaluation of the Fitzroy Street CCTV

trial. The Fitzroy Street CCTV Year One Evaluation Report will be submitted to the Department of

Justice as the final milestone of the Public Safety Infrastructure funding agreement in March

2018.

This report will also be presented for the consideration of Port Phillip City Council and made

public providing accountability for our community.

After one year, the CCTV system in Fitzroy Street has improved the way police prevent and

respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street.

At this point in time, the data indicates that there has been small improvements to the community

perception of safety, street appeal and crime in Fitzroy Street since the installation of CCTV.

Stakeholder interviews provide anecdotal evidence that improvements are greater. Each

stakeholder interviewed described that Fitzroy Street has generally improved since the


It is important to note that twelve months is insufficient time to identify trends, particularly

regarding crime statistics and safety perceptions. The challenge of attributing the improvements

to the CCTV system are noted.

Evaluation data will continue to be collected. The Fitzroy Street CCTV Year 2 Evaluation Report

will be presented to Council in March 2019 and will include recommendations for the future of the

initiative.

9


2 Evaluation Methodology

2.1 Project Initiation

The decision to install CCTV in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda was situated in a time of change. Key

stages are summarised below:

A large streetscape upgrade was undertaken in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda to contribute

to improving the vibrancy and appeal of the street and improving safety perceptions.

This upgrade began in July 2015 and was completed in November 2015. The

streetscape upgrade includes new palm trees, lighting, feature paving and

landscaping and new street furniture. A piece of public art was also installed in

October 2015.

July 2015

Council endorsed the decision to purchase, maintain and install up to ten CCTV

cameras in Fitzroy Street as part of a two-year trial in conjunction with a suite of

other crime prevention measures.

August 2015

Announcement of the successful funding application to the Department of Justice

Public Safety Infrastructure Fund.

October 2015

The Fitzroy Street Community Safety Forum was held by Victoria Police to

understand community views about community safety and allow for timely proactive

responses to concerns.

November 2016

Council contributed a further $15,000 to Victoria Police to contribute to the

establishment of the Divisional Operations Support Office (DOSO) to enable

proactive monitoring of the CCTV cameras in Fitzroy Street.

November 2016

The seven CCTV cameras were installed in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. December 2016

All seven CCTV cameras were operational after technical difficulties March 2017

This project was part of the Fitzroy Street Vibrant Village program run by the City of

Port Phillip. The Vibrant Villages program aims to develop partnerships with the

community to create and maintain welcoming, attractive and thriving places for

everyone. The Fitzroy Street Village includes a range of strategies and projects to

increase economic activity and to create a welcoming and inclusive space that

fosters less anti-social behaviour. The Vibrant Villages program concluded in June

2017.

June 2017

Year One Evaluation Report due to the Department of Justice March 2018

Final Report due to Council March 2019

2.2 Project Changes

There was a delay with the project due to technical issues with the public CCTV cameras that

were installed in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda in December 2016. All seven cameras have been

operational since 2 March 2017.

It is also important to note, the decision regarding the additional funding to enable proactive

monitoring was made after the project began. The additional workstation at the St Kilda police

station was installed to assist Victoria Police to proactively monitor the cameras at peak times

throughout the two-year trial period. The additional workstation has been installed and

operational since March 20, 2017. Port Phillip City Council provided the addition funding for this

infrastructure.

10


Due to the three-month delay in the operations of the CCTV cameras, this Fitzroy Street CCTV

Year One Report has been completed in March 2018 to allow for the assessment of a complete

year of functional operations. For some datasets only ten months of information was available.

2.3 Evaluation Design

The purpose of the CCTV Fitzroy Street evaluation is to assess to what degree the installation of

CCTV influenced the community perception of safety, street vibrancy and crime. This report

analyses and summarises the data to answer the key evaluation questions at the half way point

of the trial, being one year of operations of CCTV in Fitzroy Street.

Key evaluation questions assessed are:

1. To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the perception of safety in


2. To what degree did the installation of CCTV improve the vibrancy and appeal of


3. To what degree did CCTV reduce crime on Fitzroy St, St Kilda and neighbouring

streets?

4. To what degree did the installation of CCTV influence how police prevent and

respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

5. To what extent did the installation of CCTV influence diverse social participation in


The report is guided by the Evaluation Plan CCTV Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and the Evaluation

Baseline report that was completed in March 2016. The evaluation plan outlines which data

sources inform the consideration of the key evaluation questions and articulates how attribution

and contribution can be applied.

A range of data sources have been selected to cross check information and improve the validity

of conclusions. A summary of data sources is provided at Attachment 1.

The Year One report compares the data to the baseline report to measure the impact of the

installation and operations of CCTV in Fitzroy Street.

2.4 Intercept Surveys

Residents and visitors to Fitzroy Street completed surveys delivered by individual random

intercept. The baseline information was collected in December 2015. Questions were directly

replicated between 31 January and 4 February 2018. In both collections, respondents were

approached at different times of the day over four sessions:

• Wednesday 31 January during the day

• Friday 2 February during the evening

• Saturday 3 February during the evening

• Sunday 4 February during the day

The surveys comprised of a mixture of 15 closed and open-ended questions covering:

• Sociability - crime and safety, social connectedness, issues of concern

• Economy and activity - local business activity, evening/daytime activity, reasons to visit

• Demographics – gender, age, postcode, relationship to the City of Port Phillip

The surveys were structured for respondents to ‘score’ the level of perceived safety or level of

concern against a scale whereby 0 was considered very unsafe and 10 was considered very

safe.

11


2.5 Stakeholder Interviews

Six in-depth semi structured stakeholder interviews were conducted to obtain valuable data and

information regarding safety, vibrancy and participation in the Fitzroy Street Precinct. All

questions were presented and answered by each stakeholder representative. See Attachment 2.

The same representative sample were interviewed before and one year after the installation of

the CCTV system. The key stakeholders interviewed were:

• Victoria Police Local Area Inspector

• Victoria Police Leading Senior Constable

• City of Port Phillip – Fitzroy Street Precinct Director

• City of Port Phillip – Economic Development Officer

• Fitzroy Street Business Association – President

• Resident of Fitzroy Street (previously involved in the Village Partnership Group)

Response themes were identified and considered according to how views may have changed or

remained the same since the installation of CCTV. The number of representatives who identified

the key themes are noted as well as whether there was agreement or differing opinions.

Stakeholders were asked to be predictive about the future of Fitzroy Street to suggest trends.

These trends will be further analysed in the Year Two Report in March 2019.

2.6 Council Statistics

Internal data was collected and analysed to provide a range of indicators for this report. This

data will be compared to the baseline report to measure change after twelve months of

operations of CCTV.

Data Department

Shop vacancy rates Community and Economic Development

Streetscape maintenance Infrastructure Maintenance Services

Syringe collection data Health Services

Pedestrian counts Sustainable Transport

Customer Relationship Management System Business Intelligence

Graffiti removal data Building Maintenance Services

2.7 Crime Statistics

Crime data was obtained through Crime Statistics Agency. This data was divided according to

time ranges to indicate levels of crime before and after the installation of the CCTV system. Data

was also divided geographically to indicate whether there has been a displacement of crime due

to the installation of the CCTV system from Fitzroy Street to surrounding streets (Attachment 3).

Database Organisation

Crime Statistics Crime Statistics Agency

Victoria Police Evaluation Log Victoria Police

Victoria Police Survey Victoria Police

12


2.8 Determining Attribution

The key challenge of the evaluation is that of determining attribution and contribution. When

assessing attribution, the study considered whether the CCTV caused the observed outcomes.

This is pertinent as the timing of the installation of the CCTV occurred soon after streetscape

works, community partnership activities and more general shifts in population and economic

activity. St Kilda, being a seasonal entertainment precinct, also experiences different social

participation at different times of the year.

Information was gathered that seeks to clarify whether the CCTV caused or contributed to the

observed outcomes. Stakeholder Interviews included specific questions to further understand

informed views with regards to the attribution and contribution of CCTV to changes measured.

There were many changes in and around Fitzroy Street between 2016 and 2017 when the CCTV

became operational. These changes will need to be considered as potentially influencing the

changes identified in this evaluation.

Contextual Changes Potential influence on Key Evaluation Questions

Streetscape works July 2015 to

2017

Beautification of Fitzroy Street aimed to create increased

pride and care for public spaces.

The Gatwick Rooming House in

Fitzroy Street closed in May

2017

The closure of the rooming house enacted local housing

support agencies to implement the Rooming House

Closure Protocol. This means that additional housing

support resources were focused on Fitzroy Street for a

distinct period from April to June 2017.

Channel 9 purchased the

Gatwick Hotel for the Block

television show Mid 2017

The filming of the television show has seen an increase in

construction workers in the area as the building is

prepared as well as the closure of Loch Street for works.

Announcement of the Pride

Centre in Fitzroy Street Early

2017

Community celebration of the announcement of the Pride

Centre to be in Fitzroy Street and a sense of positivity for

future street vibrancy.

Sacred Heart Mission and

Launch Housing received

additional funding Late 2017

Additional funding has seen an increased response to

people who experience homelessness in Fitzroy Street

and the surrounding Grey Street precinct.

Alanara Rooming House

renovation (corner of Acland

Street and Fitzroy Street)

Increased demand and pressure on nearby public rooming

houses.

13


2.9 Data Limitations

There are limitations specific to collection and analysis of each data source.

Data Source Limitations

Stakeholder

Interviews

A major limitation of the stakeholder interviews was that from each

stakeholder group a representative was selected to speak on behalf of the

group. It is possible that the information provided in the interviews were not

conveying other points of view from traders, residents, Victoria Police or

Council.

Intercept

Surveys

The surveys were conducted by two different companies. There was also an

increase in participation in the 2018 intercept survey. In 2015, 64 people

participated in the survey and in 2018, 144 people participated. These issues

are mitigated by the following:

• Exact same questions asked

• The surveys were conducted at the same location and times of day.

• Provide confidence scores

Shop

Vacancy

Rates

As reported at the time of collection.

Streetscape

Maintenance

Records

A limitation of the footpath ratings is that they are subjective scores based on

a range of criteria. The scores may differ between different Asset Inspection

Officers.

Syringe

Collection

Data

The syringe collection data includes syringe containers and street cleans that

the contractor employed by Council collects.

This does not include syringes that other people such as local community

members or outreach workers have collected and disposed of correctly.

Pedestrian

Counts

Pedestrian counts are conducted on Fitzroy Street between Loch Street and

Park Lane. These counts are arranged on a weekday and a weekend and

occur twice a year. The major limitation of the pedestrian counts was that

they were undertaken across days at different points during the year.

Because of this, variations in weather and other conditions such as people’s

daily routines may have provided some variation in results.

Customer

Relationship

Management

System

All enquiries to Council are logged and responded through the Customer

Relationship Management Pathway system. The search was conducted using

selected key words and Fitzroy Street as the location of the issue. The

keywords were; crime, safe, unsafe, alcohol, drugs and anti-social.

Limitations of this search include those enquiries/complaints were not logged

in the system as well as reports that did not include the search words but

were associated with Fitzroy Street.

Another limitation is that assessing the level of impact is a subjective process.

Graffiti

Removal

Data

A limitation of the graffiti removal data is that only graffiti removed by the

contractor employed by Council is recorded.

14


Crime

Statistics

The Crime Statistics Agency recorded crime collection includes all offences

that are reported to, and detected by, Victoria Police and recorded on the

LEAP database. The scope and coverage of the data, however, is not

representative of all crime that occurs in Victoria. Some crimes may not be

recorded on LEAP, not be reported to police, or the responsibility for

responding to certain offences may lie with another agency.

Victoria

Police CCTV

Evaluation

Log

The limitations associated with the evaluation log include:

• Inconsistent recording of incidents

• The way in which incidents are recorded differs between Victoria Police

members.

• Subjective in choosing the response type

• Passive monitoring is not recorded

Victoria

Police CCTV

Survey

The Victoria Police CCTV survey has a small response rate with only 25

responses collected. The results may not be representative of the use of the

CCTV system across the St Kilda Police workforce.

15


3 Interim Results

3.1 Key Evaluation Question 1: To what degree did the installation of

CCTV improve the perception of safety in Fitzroy Street?

3.1.1 KEQ 1: Intercept surveys

The intercept surveys asked participants two questions regarding safety perceptions:

1. On a scale of 0 (very unsafe) to 10 (very safe), with 5 being neither safe nor unsafe,

how safe do you feel in Fitzroy Street in the following situations?

▪ Alone during the day

▪ With others during the day

▪ Alone during the night

▪ With others at night

2. On a scale of 0 (very unconcerned) to 10 (very concerned), with 5 being neutral, how

concerned are you about each of the following issues (as reported in 2015) in Fitzroy

Street?

• Noise

• Theft/property damage

• Drug dealing/use

• Alcohol-related anti-social

behaviour/violence

• Family violence

• Road accidents/speeding

• Bodily excretions (e.g. urine, vomit)

Perceptions of Safety

In the 2015 baseline survey, the data showed that respondents feel relatively safe in

Fitzroy Street, with ratings between six and ten for all situations. In the 2018 survey, the

data showed that respondents continue to feel relatively safe in Fitzroy Street.

Repondents felt safer being in Fitzroy Street during the day.

Being alone at night received the lowest perception of safety score before and after the

installation of the CCTV system.

When the slightly differing confidence levels (calculated using sample numbers) are

assessed, it is confirmed that the safety perceptions have slightly improved after one year

of CCTV operations on Fitzroy Street. Confidence level calculations are provided for each

intercept suvey in Attachment 4.

16


Graph 1: Perception of Safety in Fitzroy Street: Alone During the Day

Graph 2: Perception of Safety in Fitzroy Street: With Others During the Day

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Extremely safe Quite safe Neither safe orunsafe

Slightly unsafe Not at all safe DNA

2015 Alone during day 2018 Alone during day

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%



2015 With others during the day 2018 With others during the day

17


Graph 3: Perception of Safety in Fitzroy Street: Alone During the Night

Graph 4: Perception of Safety in Fitzroy Street: With Others at Night

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%



2015 Alone during the night 2018 Alone during the night

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

45%

50%



2015 With others at night 2018 With others at night

18


Safety Concerns

Respondents were asked about their safety concerns in Fitzroy Street prior to and after

the installation of the CCTV system. Participants ranked issues according to their level of

concern. The methodology in 2015 required survey repondents to select the top three

safety concerns. In 2018, respondents provided a weighted score for each safety

concern. Therefore we can note the issues of higher concern but cannot compare the

ranks and scores between years.

Alcohol related anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and drug use, theft and property

damage continue to be the highest ranked concerns.

Graph 5: Main Safety Concerns in Fitzroy Street in 2015 – Ranked in Top 3 Concerns

Graph 6: Main Safety Concerns in Fitzroy Street in 2018 – Weighed Ranking

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Noise

Litter

Road accidents/speeding

Family violence

Bodily excretions (eg: urination, vomiting)

Non-alcohol related anti-social behaviour and/or violence

Theft/property damage

Drugs dealing/use

Alcohol related anti-social behaviour and/or violence

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Noise

Family violence

Road accidents/speeding

Bodily excretions (e.g. urine, vomit)

Theft/property damage

Drug dealing/use

Alcohol related anti-social behaviour/violence

19


3.1.2 KEQ 1: Stakeholder interviews

All stakeholders interviewed reported feeling safer in Fitzroy Street since the installation of

CCTV in the precinct. All stakeholders interviewed also identified that the street has

improved in the past year.

Before the installation of CCTV, each stakeholder interviewed reported poor perceptions

of safety in the street, several stating they would not walk down the street alone. The

main safety concerns identified were high levels of anti-social behaviour including violence

as well as intimidating behaviour such as groups congregating in the area as well as

aggressive begging.

One year after the installation of CCTV, the perception of safety in Fitzroy Street was

reported by stakeholders to have increased dramatically. All stakeholders interviewed

noted a significant improvement.

Each stakeholder interviewed also stated that the anti-social behaviour including large

congregations of people in the street has decreased which is contributing to people feeling

safe in the area. Two stakeholders made comments that there is a little bit more economic

activity during the day which is adding to the improvements to the street.

“There has been a dramatic decrease in people loitering and congregating in the

area.”

“I don’t fear walking down the street.”

“CCTV has provided the vibe of safety in the street, it has given people more

confidence to be in Fitzroy Street.”

“There has been a marked improvement in the street, particularly during the day”

One stakeholder said that the incidence of on-street drug trading has disappeared which

has greatly improved safety in the street.

The views on the extent to which CCTV has influenced the increase in safety perceptions

were mixed. Two stakeholders felt confident that CCTV was responsible for feeling safer

in the street. Others said they noticed the changes in the street when the Gatwick Hotel

closed in the street.

“CCTV has most definitely caused the changes seen.”

“I have noticed the changes in the street post the Gatwick closure – around May

2017”


CCTV improve the vibrancy and appeal of Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

3.2.1 KEQ 2: Shop vacancy rates

Six-monthly data is collected to report the shop vacancy rates in Fitzroy Street. This data

shows that there continues to be many vacant shops on Fitzroy Street.

Before the installation of CCTV in 2015, there was 19 vacant shops in June and 15 vacant

shops in December. One year after the installation of CCTV, the shop vacancy rates in

Fitzroy Street have increased to 22 vacant shops in June 2017. Please note the shop

vacancy count for December 2017 is unavailable.

20


Graph 7: Shop vacancy rate in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

3.2.2 KEQ 2: Pedestrian counts

Pedestrian counts are conducted on Fitzroy Street between Loch Street and Park Lane,

St Kilda. These counts are arranged on a weekday and a weekend and occur twice a

year. The seasonality of the street is taken into consideration with these counts, with

March representing the Summer months and October representing the Winter months.

There has been little change between weekday pedestrian counts in Fitzroy Street

between 2014 and 2017. The counts in 2014 and 2015, show the number of pedestrians

in the street before the installation of CCTV. In 2014, the March count recorded 4,132

people. In October, this number decreased slightly with 4,000 people counted. These

figures remained stable in 2015 with the March count recording 4,381 and 4,514 people in

October.

The 2016 and 2017 counts show the pedestrian traffic after the installation of CCTV. The

weekday counts increased in 2016, with 5,073 pedestrians in March and 5,012 in October.

In 2017, the counts decreased again slightly with 4,987 in March and 7,887 in December.

Graph 8: Weekday Pedestrian Counts in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

19 19

22

15

17

0

5

10

15

20

25

2015 2016 2017

Num

ber

of

vacant

shops

JUNE DECEMBER

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

2014 2015 2016 2017

MARCH OCTOBER

21


There is more pedestrian traffic on Fitzroy Street on weekends. Between 2014 and 2016,

the weekend pedestrian counts increased on Fitzroy Street. In 2014, there was 4,352

pedestrians counted in March. The count increased slightly with 5,792 in October 2014.

The counts for 2015 continued to increase with 6,128 and 6,748 in March and October

respectively. In 2016, the March count recorded 7,705 pedestrians and 8,053 in October.

However, in 2017 the pedestrian counts slightly deceased with 6,055 people recorded in

March and 6,056 in October.

Graph 9: Weekend Pedestrian Counts in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda


To further understand how CCTV improved the vibrancy and appeal of Fitzroy Street, the

intercept surveys included questions regarding the economy and activity in Fitzroy Street.

Participants were asked the following questions:

1. How often do you typically visit Fitzroy Street?

2. What times of the day do you typically visit Fitzroy Street?

3. How long do you typically spend in Fitzroy Street each time you visit? (time)

4. How much would you typically spend each time you visit Fitzroy Street?

5. Reasons for visiting Fitzroy Street

Visiting Fitzroy Street

Respondents were asked how often they visit Fitzroy Street. After the installation of

CCTV, the intercept survey showed that there has been a decrease in people visiting the

precinct frequently. In 2018, 48% of respondents visited Fitzroy Street frequently. In

2015, 75% of respondents visited the precinct frequently.

The evening (5pm – 11pm) continues to be the most common time when most people visit

Fitzroy Street. This has remained the same between the two surveys with a slight

increase with 58% of respondents visiting the precinct in the evenings in 2018.

After the installation of CCTV, there has been an increase in people visiting the street in

the afternoon and a slight decrease of people visiting the area in the morning.

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

7,000

8,000

9,000

2014 2015 2016 2017

MARCH OCTOBER

22


Graph 10: Visiting times in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Graph 11: Percentage of respondents that spend 1 hour or more in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Respondents were also asked about how long they spend in the street when they visit. In

2015, 66.7% of respondents spend one hour or more when visiting the street. This is still

the case, with 72% of respondents in 2018 staying in the area for one hour or more.

39%

34%

47%

8%

11%

31%

47%

58%

6%8%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Morning during theday

Afternoon during theday

In the evening In the early morning I don't usually visitFitzroy Street

Dec-15 Feb-18

67%

72%

23


Graph 12: Percentage of respondents that spend $30 or more in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

There has been a decrease in spending between the two surveys. In 2015, 72% of

respondents spent over $30 in the street. In 2018 this decreased to only 55% of

respondents spending $30 or more per visit when in Fitzroy Street.

Visiting cafes, bars and restaurants remains the top reason for visiting Fitzroy Street.

There has been an increase in people visiting the area to socialise with friends or sit and

relax with 65% of people rating this as a reason to come to the street.

Overall, the top ten reasons have not changed except for engaging in art, music or

cultural experiences. 21% of respondents in 2018 rated this as a reason to visit the

precinct, when in 2015, this did not make the top ten reasons.

There are less people visiting the street to catch public transport with only 38% in 2018

compared to 59% in 2015. There are more people are visiting the street to do their

grocery shopping with a 15% increase.

Only a small proportion of respondents continue to visit the street for other retail shopping.

72%

55%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

2015 2018

24


Graph 13: Reasons for visiting Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

25



There was a general sense that since the installation of CCTV, Fitzroy Street has become

more appealing. Each stakeholder interviewed identified that there has been more activity

in the street in the past year and this is having a positive impact on businesses and the

‘feel of the street’. However, all stakeholders interviewed stated that it is currently difficult

for the street to be vibrant and appealing due to the high number of shop vacancies.

Before the installation of CCTV, the street is described as two separate areas, with the top

end between Princes Street and Grey Street as appealing. The stretch of street between

Grey Street to Acland Street was described by all stakeholders interviewed as

unappealing. It was stated by all stakeholders interviewed that there was very little

activity particularly during the day, due to the high number of vacant shops in the precinct.

When interviewing stakeholders one year after the installation of CCTV, all reported an

increase in activity in Fitzroy Street. One stakeholder mentioned that there has been a

positive shift in the appeal of the street with higher volumes of people in the street.

“We appear to be seeing for the first time in a long time, visitors as well as

tourists that people are coming to sit down to have a cocktail, a drink or a light

meal. This is a new thing for us – it didn’t use to be new, but it disappeared for a

while there.”

There was a strong focus on the high shop vacancy in the street, with all stakeholders

interviewed saying this is the main shift that needs to occur to improve the vibrancy and

appeal of the street. While many stakeholders identified that the installation of CCTV has

contributed to the increase appeal of the street because it feels safer, the offering of

shops is vital to improving the overall appeal and vibrancy of the precinct.

“The street is marketed towards backpackers not locals.”

“The quality of shops needs to be enhanced.”

Two stakeholders interviewed mentioned that the street is more appealing because the

safety in the street has improved with less anti-social behaviour occurring in the area.

“The street is more appealing because people are feeling safe in Fitzroy Street

again.”

“There is less intimidating behaviour and people loitering in the street which

creates a more positive atmosphere.”

Another stakeholder re-iterated the fact that Fitzroy Street remains a predominantly night-

time precinct, with day time trading still quiet in the street.

The recent events and activations in the street such as the Pride March and the

Halloween event were reported as positive activities in the area to bring people back to

Fitzroy Street.

“The number of activations in Fitzroy Street including the Pride March and the

Halloween festival has helped improve the reputation of the street.”

26



CCTV reduce crime on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and neighbouring

streets?

3.3.1 KEQ 3: Crime Statistics Victoria

Criminal offences in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

There has been a change in recorded crime statistics in Fitzroy Street since the

installation of CCTV. The Year 2 Evaluation Report will further understand this change

using the Australian Institute of Criminology Measuring Changes in Recorded Crime

Calculator.

Drug offences is the only category that has a small consistent decrease in offences from

January 2016 to August 2017.

Property and deception offences continues to be the most common criminal offence in

Fitzroy Street with 440 offences recorded between 2014 – 2017. Please see Attachment

5 for numerical table of crime statistics.

Graph 14: Criminal offences recorded in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Criminal offences in surrounding streets

The crime statistics for the surrounding streets are assessed to check whether there is

any evidence of crime displacement.

Property and deception offences continue to be the highest offence type in the St Kilda

suburb, followed by crimes against the person.

Drug offences in the streets surrounding Fitzroy Street, St Kilda have slightly increased

from January 2016 – August 2017.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

Jan – Mar 2014

Jun - Aug 2014 Jan – Mar 2015

Jun- Aug 2015 Jan – Mar 2016

Jun- Aug 2016 Jan - Mar 2017 Jun - Aug 2017

Crimes against the person Property and deception offences

Drug offences Public order and Security offences

27


Graph 15: Criminal offences recorded in surrounding areas

3.3.2 KEQ 3: Graffiti removal data

Fitzroy Street

Daily patrols for graffiti removal began in Fitzroy Street in January 2017. There has been

no significant change to graffiti in Fitzroy Street.

There was approximately 180 square meters of graffiti removed from the street in

November 2017. There were seven jobs in November 2017, with two large jobs, one with

67 square metres removed and the other with 40 square metres removed.

Graph 16: Graffiti removal in Fitzroy Street

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Jan – Mar 2014

Jun -Aug 2014 Jan – Mar 2015

Jun –Aug2015

Jan - Mar2016

Jun - Aug2016

Jan - Mar2017

Jun - Aug2017

Crimes against the person Property and deception offences Drug offences

Public order and Security offences Justice procedures Other

28


Surrounding areas

The St Kilda and St Kilda West precinct includes the surrounding streets around Fitzroy

Street. There was a high amount of graffiti removal jobs in the St Kilda precinct,

specifically between October 2016 and June 2016. The St Kilda West precinct has much

smaller requests for graffiti removal with one large job being reported in February 2017.

Graph 17: Graffiti removal in surrounding areas – St Kilda Precinct

Graph 18: Graffiti removal in surrounding areas – St Kilda West Precinct

3.3.3 KEQ 3: Streetscape maintenance

Annual footpath inspections are conducted by Council throughout the municipality. During

the annual footpath inspection, all footpath segments are given an overall condition rating.

The rating scale ranges from one to five, with one indicating excellent condition and five

indicating poor condition. Zone six and seven cover the Fitzroy Street precinct. The

footpath maintenance data is analysed in three categories: Fitzroy Street, immediate

streets surrounding Fitzroy Street and St Kilda (excluding Fitzroy Street and immediate

streets).

The footpath condition ratings for zone six indicates excellent conditions with ratings

ranging from 1.4 – 1.7 across the three areas.

The annual condition rating has improved for Fitzroy Street and St Kilda and stayed the

same for the immediate streets.

29


The footpath condition rating for Fitzroy Street in zone seven indicates an excellent

condition, this remains unchanged since 2015. The immediate streets and St Kilda rating

is 2.3 indicating there are some issues with the footpath.

Graph 19: Average footpath ratings – Zone Six

Graph 20: Average footpath ratings – Zone Seven

3.3.4 KEQ 3: Syringe collection and street cleaning

The results show fluctuations in syringe collection of both street cleans and containers.

There continues to be a very small amount of syringe litter in Fitzroy Street.

There are a range of factors that influence syringe collection data in the area. For

example, private business and local agencies collect a number of syringes from both

public and private spaces.

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

2014 2015 2016 2017

Avera

ge f

ootp

ath

rating

Fitzroy Street Immediate Streets St. Kilda

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

2014 2015 2016 2017

Avera

ge f

ootp

ath

rating

Fitzroy Street Immediate Streets St. Kilda

30


Graph 21: Syringe Container Collection

31


Graph 22: Street Cleaning

3.3.5 KEQ 3: Customer enquiries

All enquiries to Council are logged and responded through the Customer Relationship

Management Pathway system. A search has been conducted to assess the content and

level of impact of the enquiries made regarding Fitzroy Street. The search was conducted

using selected key words and Fitzroy Street as the location of the issue. The keywords

were; crime, safe, unsafe, alcohol, drugs and anti-social.

32


The search was completed before the installation of CCTV between January 2016 and

March 2016. The search was again conducted a year after the installation of CCTV

between June 2016 and December 2017 to enable as enable comparison.

Before the installation of CCTV, the key word search returned a total of 43 enquiries were

made to Council. The analysis of these enquiries showed that anti-social behaviour,

violence and people feeling unsafe in the precinct were major concerns in the street.

There was a significant amount of concerns to Council regarding safety including physical

and/or verbal abuse, drug use and syringe litter. Many people reported feeling unsafe and

intimidated in the precinct.

There was also a high proportion of concerns regarding litter and insufficient lighting.

One year after the installation of CCTV, the search returned 35 enquiries, a slight

decrease compared to the baseline report.

Council continues to receive concerns from community regarding rubbish and litter in the

street, however people are no longer reporting safety concerns associated with this. There

are also fewer concerns regarding insufficient lighting.

There continues to be concerns reported relating to feeling unsafe and anti-social

behaviour including drug use in the street. However, there has been a decrease in the

frequency and severity of these concerns. There has been a noticeable decrease in

concerns relating to anti-social behaviour from May 2017. to Council regarding anti-social

behaviour and safety concerns, particularly from May 2017.

When comparing the number and type of enquiries made to Council regarding Fitzroy

Street, the reports seem to be less frequent and less severe after the installation of CCTV.


There was agreement among all stakeholders interviewed that the crime in Fitzroy Street

has decreased since the installation of CCTV.

Before the installation of CCTV, stakeholders described high levels of criminal behaviour

in the street including drug use, violence, abuse, theft and vandalism. It was identified that

the corner of Jackson Street and Fitzroy Street was an area where many people would

congregate and create an intimidating atmosphere.

Since the installation of CCTV, all stakeholders reported a decrease in the criminal activity

in the street. While the crime has not ceased completely, each stakeholder reported lower

levels of anti-social behaviour and violence in the area.

“There is significantly less people loitering and displaying aggressive behaviours

in the street.”

One stakeholder specifically mentioned that the on-street drug trading has “disappeared

from the street since the installation of CCTV.”

Another stakeholder reported significantly less theft and vandalism in the area.

“The CCTV has limited the opportunity for damage.”

As Fitzroy Street has many late night licensed venues, one stakeholder reported that

there is still alcohol-related incidents occurring in the precinct.

33


Most stakeholders noted that the people congregating on the corner of Jackson Street

and Fitzroy Street has decreased and this does not happen as often since the installation

of CCTV.

Regarding the impact of CCTV on criminal activity in neighbouring streets, the views were

varied between stakeholders.

“It is very difficult to know if CCTV has contributed to this crime in neighbouring

streets.”

All stakeholders identified increased concerns in Little Grey Street. Two stakeholders

stated that concerns have escalated particularly in the past six months. Another

stakeholder acknowledged the increased concerns in Little Grey Street but believes the

neighbouring streets have been problematic for quite some time now.

“Little Grey Street and Grey Street has become more problematic in the past six

months”

“There continues to be issues in Little Grey and Grey Street, this has been

happening for a while.”

Another issue of concern that was identified by two stakeholders was an increase in

criminal activity in Newton Court Reserve. One stakeholder stated that this shift in crime

was caused by the installation of CCTV.

“There is an increased overflow of crime leading from Fitzroy Street into Jackson

Street and onto Newton Reserve as these two laneways provide easy hiding

places away from the new Fitzroy Street CCTV.”


CCTV influence how police prevent and respond to crime in and

around Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

The Fitzroy Street CCTV footage is broadcast in two locations in the St Kilda Police Station. The

cameras can be viewed in the Section Sergeant’s Office/Watch House as well as the Divisional

Operations Support Office (DOSO). The cameras are actively monitored at peak times

determined by Victoria Police.

It is important to note that the evaluation log and Victoria Police member survey only provide a

snapshot of how the CCTV system is used to prevent and respond to crime in Fitzroy Street.

3.4.1 KEQ 4: Case Studies

The following case studies were sent to Council from Port Phillip Service Area Inspector in

October 2017. The two case studies were shared to demonstrate the value of the CCTV

installation on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda for Victoria Police.

Licensed Venue

On Saturday 7 October 2017, at 9 pm Victoria Police members at St Kilda Police Station

were monitoring the CCTV cameras when they observed a disturbance outside a St Kilda

licensed venue. The members directed Police who were out on patrol to the exact location

of the incident, with specific detail of what was occurring. Police responding could be

provided real time updates (e.g. fight appeared to be over but persons present had armed

themselves with chairs). The updates enabled the Patrol Supervisor to risk assess what

34


resources were required to respond (Safety First Approach). Once Police arrived on the

scene – the members monitoring the CCTV were able to review the footage to see what

had occurred. Within three to four minutes of arriving on scene – a member from the

station was able to detail to Police present what had occurred and within 8 minutes

provide footage to front line members to detail what had occurred.

The offender was known to Victoria Police and identified immediately. He was a high risk

wanted person and presented significant community risks due to his actions prior to this

incident (wanted for serious other crimes). Other responding Police were then able to be

provided with the exact details of the suspect and accurate images of his clothing, as

opposed to relying on conflicting witness accounts of physical description/clothing. Other

responding Police were also able to be briefed regarding the threat posed by the now

known suspect (intelligence surrounding his suicidal ideations) and his last known

direction of travel (which had been identified via the CCTV footage).

The evidentiary value of the CCTV on this occasion is its reliability as an irrefutable,

independent and accurate account of what occurred. The CCTV was invaluable at the

time of the incident, whether viewed through the prism of an investigator (evidence

collection and investigation) or as the first Police response unit to a critical incident such

as this (safety of public and responding Police). The footage was also utilised to make a

public appeal for the wanted person to hand himself in. Whilst he didn’t hand himself in a

member of the public identified the suspect and subsequently contacted Police and a

successful arrest made.

Uncapped Syringe

On 27 Sept 2017 at 0555 hrs – An offender entered convenience store located on Fitzroy

Street St Kilda. The offender approached the shop keeper and made a demand for $50

while holding an uncapped syringe in her hand pointed towards attendant. The attendant

refused the demand and as a result the offender became aggressive. The attendant then

chased offender from the store before calling Triple 000 (Police). The offender was

arrested by Victoria Police at tram stop a short distance from the store. The syringe was

also located nearby.

Because of the CCTV system a Victoria Police member working from the St Kilda Police

Station was able review the footage and zoom into the store front (window area) on the

CCTV system, whilst liaising with Police Communications to determine the time and a

description of the offender. The Police member could zoom in and obverse a female enter

and could make out an altercation with a staff member present occurred. The offender

then left the store and decamped the scene.

The Police units could be provided a description in a timely manner, patrol the area and

locate the offender. As the initial description was vague from the attendant a review of the

CCTV was conducted and an enhanced description obtained that ultimately resulted in the

arrest of the offender. In other words, the Police back at the station could confirm the

person being spoken to by the Police on the street was in fact the offender. In summary,

the CCTV provided evidence and was a useful investigative tool in locating the offender

and assisting with a successful arrest.

35


3.4.2 KEQ 4: Evaluation Log

The CCTV Evaluation log aims to capture how the CCTV system is being used to assist

police in preventing and responding to crime. Many incidents were recorded each month

to provide a summary of how the system is being used.

The CCTV has enabled police to respond to incidents proactively by monitoring a situation

or providing a live response to a job. The CCTV is also used reactively to review footage,

provide a brief of evidence and to corroborate emergency ‘000’ calls.

The way in which CCTV influences the way police prevent and respond to crime is

dependent on the incident. For example, there were ten recorded incidents of anti-social

behaviour in Fitzroy Street. Seven of these responses were proactive with police

members monitoring the situation and providing a live response to the job if required.

Three of the responses were reactive and involved watching the footage to confirm an

emergency call to Triple ‘000’, to observe and advise police movements and to prepare a

brief of evidence. The CCTV footage resulted in being able to locate and identify

offenders, direct patrol units to the location of offenders and provided support to attending

units by monitoring the situation via CCTV. A full summary of the ways in which CCTV is

used by Victoria Police for different responses is included in Attachment 6.

3.4.3 KEQ 4: Victoria Police CCTV Survey

A short survey was distributed to members of the St Kilda Police Station to strengthen the

data relating to the impact of CCTV to how police prevent and respond to crime in Fitzroy

Street. 25 members completed the survey which provides a summary of how they used

the CCTV system during August 2017.

Members were asked to estimate how many times that had used the Fitzroy Street CCTV

system in the Section Sergeants Office and the Divisional Operations Support Office.

There is a large difference between use of the DOSO cameras compared to the Section

Sergeant’s cameras. Many members had not used the cameras in DOSO room during

August 2017, this is because only specific members are staffed on the DOSO shift.

Most members have used the cameras in the Section Sergeants Office consistently, with

many members having used them once or twice in the past month. Please see

Attachment 7 for Stakeholder Interview Questions.

Graph 23: Use of Fitzroy Street CCTV System August 2017

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18

I haven't used it this month

1 - 2 times

3 - 5 times

6 - 8 times

9 - 10 times

More than 10 times

CCTV in Divisional Operations Support Office CCTV in the Senior Sergants Office/WatchHouse

36


Members were also asked to estimate the number of times they used the CCTV system in

the following situations:

• Provide a live response to jobs

• Deter incident/crime from occurring

• Report suspicious behaviour

• Observed and advised police movements

• Intel value

• Reviewing footage

• Prepare a brief of evidence

• Monitor member safety/supervision

The two most common situations that CCTV was used was to provide a live response to a

job and to monitor member safety and supervision. Many members also used the

cameras to observe and advise attending police movements.

Members were asked if there were other ways they have used information from CCTV to

support their work as a Victoria Police member.

A consistent answer from members was proactive monitoring and being able to provide

updates on the status of any live jobs. It is also able to confirm incidents and identify

offenders.

Other instances in which members have used the CCTV system is to manage large crowd

behaviour, prioritise jobs and ensure member safety.

“When I’m in the Watch House and I hear a job come over on Fitzroy Street, I

immediately look at the CCTV system.”

Graph 24: Purpose of Use of Fitzroy Street CCTV System August 2017

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

20

Num

ber

of

tim

es u

sed

Have not used the sytem 1 - 2 times 3 - 4 times 5 - 6 times 7 - 8 times 9 - 10 times

37


Limitations

Respondents were asked about when CCTV was little to no use to how police prevent and

respond to crime. More than half of respondents said there was not a time that CCTV has

been little or no use to their work.

The only limitations identified is when the jobs are out of sight of the cameras or technical

difficulties and the cameras are not working properly.

“Cannot think of one. When the cameras are working correctly, they are a

significant asset to police in preventing and responding to crime.”

Benefits

Respondents were also asked to identify in their own words, in the past month to what

degree did the installation of CCTV influence how police prevent and respond to crime in

and around Fitzroy Street?”

The main themes that came through were:

• Enabled accurate updates to attending units

• Prioritisation jobs

• Instrumental in safety

• Identify offenders

• Monitor problem areas

• Valuable tool to monitor large crowds in Summer

• Additional coverage when units are not available

• Assists invegstiations – review footage, prepare brief of evidence.

“The CCTV has been beneficial in being able to provide accurate updates on air

to units responding to a job with vision of the CCTV.”

“The CCTV footage has provided immediate visual observations to an area

which still suffers above average anti-social behaviour. Information can be

quickly relayed to attending units which provides a better picture of the job which

units are attending. The footage is also being used to deprioritise or cancel jobs

which have been dispatched on Fitzroy Street, after viewing the CCTV. This has

prevented the units being tied up unnecessarily.

“I have used the CCTV cameas to monitor the movements of people on Fitzroy

Street and directed members to attend that location to prevent public order

issues arising.”

“Provides additional coverage when units are not available”

“It has been a great influence in helping the safety of members and members of

the public.”

It is clear that the installation of CCTV has made a significant positive impact on how

police prevent and respond to crime in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

The CCTV has enabled proactive responses to which previously were not able to be

done with no live footage.

38


3.4.4 KEQ 4: Crime Statistics Agency - Crime Clearance Rates

Cleared crime refers to all offences recorded on the Victoria Police LEAP database that

have resulted in:

• One or more offenders being processed for the offence

• An investigation revealing that no offence has occurred

• The complaint being withdrawn

• Perpertrator was known but for legal and/or other reasons could not be charged (e.g.

underage or deceased)

The data obtained from Crime Statistics Agency Victoria details Crime Clearance rate by

offence type for Fitzroy Street as well as St Kilda excluding Fitzroy Street. Tables of

Crime Clearance Rates are included in full at Attachment 8 . In the following data sets,

the following explanatory notes are applicable:

• Cleared includes where the invetigation status is recorded by Victoria Police

members as arrest, summns, caution/warning, penalty notice or other.

• Uncleared includes where the investigation status is recorded by Victoria Police

members as Intent to Summons or unresolved.

Crime Clearance Statistics in Fitzroy Street

Overall, the crime clearance rates in Fitzroy Street have changed little since the


Between 2014 and 2015, when the CCTV was not installed in the street, the crime

clearance statistics were:

• Property and deception offences had the highest uncleared rate in Fitzroy Street with

63% of offences recorded as uncleared.

• Crimes against the person had the second highest uncleared rate with 61% being

recorded as uncleared.

• Drug offences in Fitzroy Street had a high crime clearance/solve rate with only one

offence being recorded as uncleared.

Between 2016 and 2017, CCTV was operational in Fitzroy Street, the crime clearance

statistics were:

• Property and deception offences remained the offence type with the highest

uncleared rate with 59%. This decreased by 4% from 2014/2015 rate.

• The uncleared rate also decreased for crimes against the person with 59% offences

being recorded as uncleared in 2016/2017.

• Drug offences remained the type with the highest clearance rate with again only one

incident being recorded as uncleared in 2016/2017.

Overall, the crime clearance statistics have changed slightly in Fitzroy Street with a

slightly higher cleared crime rate across the offence type categories.

39


Crime Clearance Statistics in surrounding streets (excluding Fitzroy Street)

In 2014/2015, before the CCTV was installed, the crime clearance statistics were:

• Property and deception offences had the highest uncleared rate with 68% of offences

recorded as uncleared.

• Crimes against the person is the second highest uncleared rate category with 40% of

offences recorded as uncleared.

• Drug offences had the highest clearance rate with 98% of offences recorded as

cleared.

In 2016/2017, the CCTV was installed in Fitzroy Street, the crime clearance statistics

were:

• Property and deception offences remained the category with the highest uncleared

rate with 71%, slightly higher than the 2014/2015 rate of 68%.

• Crimes against the person had a slightly lower uncleared rate with 33% in 2016/2017

Drug offences in St Kilda had a clearance rate of 93%.


There was consensus among all stakeholders that the installation of CCTV has made a

significant improvement to the way in which police prevent and respond to crime in Fitzroy

Street.

Before the installation of CCTV, stakeholders described most police response in the area

was attending to incidents, there was very limited proactive patrols. Victoria Police would

be heavily reliant on the account of events and descriptions from the members of the

public reporting incidents in the area.

The addition of the CCTV cameras in the Divisional Operations Support Office has

enabled proactive monitoring where members are able to monitor the air and provide

advice which allows for informed decisions and prevention of incidents.

The installation of CCTV has provided an additional policing tool that enables Police to

identify suspects, provide live information and intelligence to inform the response. The

CCTV has assisted in planning the most appropriate response to ensure the whole of

community and member safety.

Two stakeholders reported that there is a more proactive approach in the precinct. These

stakeholders also reported having increased confidence knowing that police have a live

stream to the street so they can provide a quick response.

“The biggest confidence is that we know that police are monitoring and are able

to provide a quick response and there will be evidence of what has happened.”

One stakeholder reported that the police response rates are much faster.

“Police response has improved both during the day and late night.”

“Police are much more responsive, they are able to see the seriousness of the

issue straight away.”

CCTV has made a significant impact to responding to serious crimes with offenders that

pose a serious risk to the community.

40


“CCTV has allowed us the capability to track down offenders which result in

quick arrests. This is a beneficial result for the whole community and Victoria

Police.”

3.5 Key Evaluation Question 5: To what extent did the installation of CCTV

influence diverse social participation in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?


In the intercept survey, respondents were asked about their relationship to the City of Port

Phillip as well as questions regarding their personal profile such as age and gender. This

data provides a sense of who visits Fitzroy Street as respondents were randomly

approached to complete the intercept survey.

Demographics

Of the people surveyed in 2018, 65 were male, 68 were female and 3 people identified as

Trans. This gender representation is like the December 2015.

People aged between 35 and 49 years of age were the most represented age group in the

survey followed by people aged between 25 and 34 years of age. There was also a large

proportion of people aged between 50 and 69 years.

There was only one person aged between 15 and 17 years of age surveyed in 2018,

compared to 16 in the 2015 survey.

The 2018 intercept survey had an increase in participation and more representation from

all age groups.

Graph 25: Age Structure of Respondents

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

15 - 17 years

18 - 24 years

25 - 34 years

35 - 49 years

50 - 69 years

70 years and over

41


Relationship to Port Phillip

Each respondent was asked about their relationship with the City of Port Phillip. 54% of

respondents live in Port Phillip and 21% of respondents visit Port Phillip for recreation.

Only 5% of respondents work in Port Phillip compared to 11% in 2015.

Almost half (42%) of respondents lived in the St Kilda neighbourhood. Fitzroy Street is

also frequented by visitors with 38% of respondents living outside of the City of Port

Phillip.

Graph 26: Relationship to Port Phillip

Graph 27: Respondent Postcode

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

I live in Port Phillip

I work in Port Phillip

I visit Port Phillip for recreation

I visit Port Phillip for shopping

I visit Port Phillip to access services

Other

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

3206, Albert Park/Middle Park

3183 - Balaclava

3184 - Elwood

3181 - Windsor

3185 - Ripponlea

3205 - South Melbourne

3004 - St Kilda Road, Melbourne

3182 - St Kilda, St Kilda South, St Kilda West

3207 - Port Melbourne, Garden City, Beacon Cove

Other

42



Stakeholders have noticed a slight shift in people who frequent and participate in Fitzroy

Street.

Before the installation of CCTV, all stakeholders identified that Fitzroy Street had a limited

diversity of patrons. The main groups frequenting Fitzroy Street were young adults

frequenting the late-night venues and a large proportion of backpackers.

Since the installation of Fitzroy Street, all stakeholders have identified an overall increase

in activity in the street.

Two stakeholders have identified that different groups are coming back to Fitzroy Street

with one stakeholder reporting that some families are frequenting the street. One

stakeholder again restated that the increased safety perceptions that CCTV has provided

is responsible for bringing people back to the street.

“I think this is because there is a growing perception of safety so people are

coming back to the street.”

Most stakeholders reported there is still predominantly backpackers and young adults

participating in the street. One stakeholder did report noticing that people are using the

precinct differently with more people staying in the area.

“It has been noticed that people are using the area differently – people are

staying in the precinct longer rather than passing through.”

Most stakeholders reported that the offering of shops needs to change to attract more

people to the street again.

“People are frequenting the restaurants and cafes – but nothing else has

changed in the street in terms of offer so difficult to bring more people to the

street if there is nothing to offer.”

43


4 Attachment 1: Evaluation Plan Summary

Key Evaluation Questions Information required Method

KEQ:1. To what degree did the

installation of CCTV improve

the perception of safety in


Self-reported perception of

safety

Intercept surveys

Stakeholder interviews


installation of CCTV improve

the vibrancy and appeal of


Economic activity

Street patronage

Shop vacancy rates


Head count surveys

Intercept surveys

KEQ.3. To what degree did the

installation of CCTV reduce

crime in and around Fitzroy St,

St Kilda?

Practice Knowledge Stakeholder interviews

Crime rates

- Against person

- Against property

- Public order

- Drug offences

- Total crime rates

- Crime rates outside of CCTV

zone

LEAP data

Crime Statistics Agency

Victoria Police

Council service data

- Graffiti clean up

- Local laws

- Streetscape maintenance

- Syringe collection data

Council data


installation of CCTV influence

how police prevent and

respond to crime in and around

Fitzroy Street, St Kilda?

Practice Knowledge Stakeholder interviews

KEQ:5. To what extent did the

installation of CCTV influence

diverse social participation in


Assessment of ‘who’

participates on and around

Fitzroy Street

Intercept/ Observation

surveys

Head count surveys


44


5 Attachment 2: Stakeholder Interview Questions

1. What changes have you noticed in the street since the installation of CCTV in the past

12 months?

o To what degree do you believe did the installation of CCTV influence these

changes?

2. What else has changed in the local area in the last 12 months?

o To what degree do you believe have those changes influenced the differences

experienced?

3. As a stakeholder, can you describe the perception of safety of residents in Fitzroy

Street?

4. After one year of operation of the CCTV cameras, what changes have you noticed

regarding perceptions of safety?

5. What are the main safety concerns identified by in Fitzroy Street?

o Has this changed since the installation of CCTV?

6. As a stakeholder, could you describe how lively and appealing you perceive Fitzroy

Street currently?

7. Thinking about the past year of CCTV being operational, have you noticed any

changes regarding the appeal of Fitzroy Street?

o To what degree do you think CCTV is responsible for those changes?

8. Can you tell me about the crime that experienced in Fitzroy Street?

9. What changes have you noticed in regards to crime in Fitzroy Street in the past year?

10. What changes have you noticed in regards to crime in neighbouring streets in the past

year?

o To what degree do you think CCTV is responsible for these changes?

11. Can you tell me what changes you have noticed as a result of CCTV in Fitzroy Street in

regards to police response?

12. Describe the different demographics of people that frequent Fitzroy Street? (Age, cultural

diversity, gender, purposes – shopping, entertainment?

o Do you think this has changed since the installation of CCTV in Fitzroy Street?

13. How do you think things will progress in the next few years for Fitzroy Street?

45


6 Attachment 3: Crime Data Map Surrounding Streets

46


7 Attachment 4: Intercept Survey Confidence Interval Calculations

Confidence Interval Calculations 2015 Survey

Confidence Level 95%

Sample Size 78

Population:

• based on street visitation numbers

• averaged from counts on weekday and weekend

• averaged from March and October counts

5443

Percentage (response variation) 50%

Confidence level 11.02

Confidence Interval Calculations 2018 Survey

Confidence Level 95%

Sample Size 144

Population:

• based on street visitation numbers

• averaged from counts on weekday and weekend

• averaged from March and October counts

5496

Percentage (response variation) 50%

Confidence level 8.06

47


8 Attachment 5: Recorded Criminal Offences

Criminal offences recorded in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Jan

– M

ar

20

14

Ju

n -

Au

g 2

01

4

Jan

– M

ar

20

15

Ju

n-

Au

g 2

01

5

Jan

– M

ar

20

16

Ju

n-

Au

g 2

01

6

Jan

- M

ar

2017

Ju

n -

Au

g 2

01

7

TO

TA

L

OFFENCE TYPE

Crimes against the

person 13 37 28 25 13 15 36 11 178

Property and

deception offences 68 28 57 55 58 52 90 32 440

Drug offences 4 2 25 32 26 13 3 9 114

Public order and

Security offences 7 6 9 18 8 3 8 6 65

Justice procedures 6 8 13 5 16 0 11 1 60

Other 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 3

TOTAL 99 81 133 135 122 83 148 59

Criminal offences recorded in surrounding streets

Jan

– M

ar

20

14

Ju

n -

Au

g 2

01

4

Jan

– M

ar

20

15

Ju

n –

Au

g2

015

Jan

- M

ar

2016

Ju

n -

Au

g 2

01

6

Jan

- M

ar

2017

Ju

n -

Au

g 2

01

7

TO

TA

L

OFFENCE TYPE

Crimes against

the person 157 1004 152 116 209 103 130 117 1988

Property and

deception

offences

664 457 639 583 623 630 664 571 4831

Drug offences 60 135 128 84 77 87 83 126 780

Public order and

Security offences 174 145 201 127 177 104 165 107 1200

Justice

procedures 83 87 84 67 264 54 72 86 797

Other 3 6 5 23 4 1 7 2 51

TOTAL 1141 1834 1209 1000 1354 979 1121 1009

48


9 Attachment 6: Summary of Victoria Police CCTV Use

Summary of Victoria Police CCTV Evaluation Log

Category Type of response Result/Outcome

Affray Proactive

• Live response to job

• Monitor the situation

• Issue de-prioritised

• Live response to the job

• CCTV monitored the situation

• Locate and identify offenders Reactive

• Change in response

• Review footage

Anti-social behaviour

Proactive


• Live response to jobs

• Divisional Operations Support Office Member monitored a large group of people loitering.

• Locate and identify offenders.

• CCTV used to locate offender and direct unit to location to lead to arrest.

• CCTV monitored in support of and while ground units patrolled.

Reactive

• Corroborating 000 emergency calls

• Observed and advised police movements

• Prepare a brief of evidence

Armed robbery Proactive

• Live response to jobs • Locate and identify suspects

• Live updates provided to attending unit. Reactive

• Intel value


Assault Proactive

• Live response to job • Locate and identify offender.

• Monitor Member safety


• Live updates to attending units

Proactive


Burguarly Proactive

• Review footage

• Intel value

• Locate and identify offender

Drug Use Proactive

• Live response to job • Live response to job and live updates to

attending unit.

Family Violence Proactive

• Live response to job • Locate and identify offender

Graffiti Reactive Review footage

• Identify offender, notify business owner.

Loitering Proactive



• Locate and identify suspects

Missing person Reactive

• Review footage • Identify missing person by Divisonal

Operations Support Office member monitoring the cameras.

Sexual assault Reactive

• Used by other investigators • Prepare brief of evidence

Robbery Reactive

• Prepare a brief of evidence • CCTV utilised to corroborate offence

and recover stolen property.

Theft Reactive

• Intel value

• Review footage

• Used by other investigators

• Locate and identify offender.

Vandalism Reactive

• Review footage • Offender arrested, charged and

remanded.

Vehicle Collision Reactive

• Intel value • Locate and identfy vehicles involved.

Warrants Reactive

• Intel value • Footage captured offender on warrants.

Welfare Check Reactive

• Live response to job • N/A

49


10 Attachment 7: Victoria Police CCTV Survey Questions

1. In the past month, how many times have you used the Fitzroy Street CCTV system in the Section Sergeants Office/Watch House (proactive or reactive)?

2. In the past month, how many times have you used the Fitzroy Street CCTV system in the Divisional Operations Support Office (DOSO)?

3. In the past month, estimate the number of times, you used the CCTV system to;

Provide a live response to jobs

Deter incident/crime from occurring

Report suspicious behaviour

Observed and advised police movements

Intel value

Reviewing footage

Prepare a brief of evidence

Monitor member safety/supervision

4. Are there other ways that you have used information from CCTV to support your work as a member?

5. In your own words, in the past month to what degree did the installation of CCTV influence how police prevent and respond to crime in and around Fitzroy Street?

6. Describe a time in the past month that the CCTV system has been of little or no use to how police prevent and respond to crime in Fitzroy Street?

50


11 Attachment 8: Crime Clearance Rates

Table 12: CRIME CLEARANCE RATES BY OFFENCE TYPE IN FITZROY STREET, ST KILDA

Jan –

Mar 2014

Jun -

Aug

2014

Jan -

Mar 2015

Jun -

Aug

2015

Jan -

Mar 2016

Jun –

Aug

2016

Jan –

Mar 2017

Jun -

Aug

2017

OFFENCE

TYPE

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Crimes

against the

person

8 5 31 8 13 15 14 10 11 2 6 9 20 16 2 9

Property

and

deception

offences

19 49 8 20 21 36 29 26 23 35 21 31 39 51 11 21

Drug

offences 4 0 2 0 24 1 31 0 26 0 12 1 3 0 9 0

Public order

and Security

offences

7 0 6 0 9 0 18 1 8 0 3 0 7 1 5 1

Justice

procedures 5 1 8 0 11 2 7 0 15 1 0 0 10 1 1 0

Other 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TOTAL 44 55 55 28 79 54 99 37 84 38 42 41 79 69 28 31

51


Table 13: CRIME CLEARANCE RATES BY OFFENCE TYPE IN SURROUNDING STREETS

(excluding Fitzroy Street)

Jan –

Mar 2014

Jun -

Aug

2014

Jan -

Mar 2015

Jun -

Aug

2015

Jan -

Mar 2016

Jun –

Aug

2016

Jan –

Mar 2017

Jun -

Aug

2017

OFFENCE

TYPE

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Cle

are

d

Uncle

are

d

Crimes

against the

person

91 67 66 38 91 63 71 45 158 51 68 35 77 53 69 48

Property

and

deception

offences

223 444 151 306 174 468 193 393 179 444 175 455 204 460 164 407

Drug

offences 60 0 134 1 118 10 86 0 76 1 80 7 77 6 113 13

Public order

and Security

offences

162 12 144 3 199 8 129 1 169 8 98 6 159 6 99 8

Justice

procedures 64 23 82 5 79 4 63 5 252 12 49 5 62 10 71 15

Other 3 0 6 0 5 0 22 0 3 1 1 0 7 0 2 0

TOTAL 603 546 583 353 666 553 564 444 837 517 471 508 586 535 518 491

fitzroy street cctv year one evaluation report march 2018 18 fitzroy street cctv year one... ·...

Documents