Violent crime

Abstract

This chapter examines the recent pattern of violent crime in Australia and its impact on community attitudes about crime and the operation of the justice system. It considers the nature of the social and other interactions where violent crime takes place and the structural factors that are associated with violent crime, including the role of alcohol and drugs and the availability of weapons. While violent crime comprises a small fraction of offending, it exerts a powerful influence on how people understand crime, the policy priorities of government, and the resources directed at crime by justice agencies.