The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has warned Melbourne’s escalating wave of violence targeting hospitality venues and entertainment precincts is placing serious pressure on business confidence, investment and the future of the city’s nighttime economy.
Safety is fundamental to maintaining Melbourne’s reputation as a vibrant, world-class city. The growing frequency and severity of violent incidents impacting venues across the city must now be addressed through a coordinated, statewide response.
The Victorian Chamber is advocating for Victoria Police, Fire Rescue Victoria, the Chief Magistrate, Children’s and County Courts, the Attorney-General, Police Minister and relevant industry peak bodies to urgently come together to develop a practical and coordinated strategy to address the growing crisis.
Since February 2026, Melbourne has experienced more than 40 firebombings, shootings and kidnappings linked to venues including nightclubs, bars and restaurants. The impacts are being felt not only through rising operational and security costs, but through growing concern about Victoria’s reputation as a safe and stable place to do business.
Melbourne’s nighttime economy contributes around $5 billion annually and supports approximately 34,000 jobs. Businesses are increasingly being forced to reconsider trading hours, security measures and future investment decisions, with some now considering relocation.
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Acting Chief Executive Amelia Bitsis:
“Businesses are operating under an unprecedented level of pressure and uncertainty. Crime has become one of the most significant concerns facing the Victorian business community, and the escalation in violence we are seeing across Melbourne is deeply alarming.
“After more than 40 attacks on businesses since February, this issue now demands an urgent, coordinated response from all levels of leadership and enforcement. Victoria Police, Fire Rescue Victoria, the courts, government and industry leaders must come together immediately to address this crisis.
“Our business community cannot continue absorbing the financial and emotional toll this violence is creating. One in five businesses tell us crime is already costing them between $50,000 and $100,000 - costs that many simply cannot sustain.
“Business owners should not be going to bed wondering whether their livelihood will still be standing the next morning. Confidence is critical to a strong economy, and businesses cannot be expected to invest, grow and employ with confidence if they do not feel safe.
“This comes at a time when many businesses are already facing significant economic pressures, including the ongoing impacts of the tobacco wars, rising operating costs and global instability linked to the Middle East crisis.
“If Victoria wants to remain competitive and continue attracting investment, workers and visitors, restoring safety and confidence in our nighttime economy must become an immediate priority.”
Media contact: Rebecca Chin, [email protected], 0423 883 945