Australia has seen one of the most substantial reductions in crime rates ever.
Over the past twenty years, the country's break-ins have dropped by 68%, motor vehicle theft by 70%, robbery by 71%, attempted murder by 70%, and murder rates by 50%; overall homicide including manslaughter fell by 59%.
There are several possible reasons for the sizeable decline, including economical advancements, lower unemployment rates, improved access to safety technology in homes and vehicles, and reduced alcohol consumption by young people. Black and gray markets have also shrunk dramatically, leading to higher risk when dealing with stolen materials.
Prior to 2001, however, Australia had the highest rates of overall crime victimization, including burglary and contact crime—robbery, sexual assault, and assault with force. The country also maintained the second-highest rate of car theft.
When compared to decades earlier, the fall in criminal activity seems nearly incomprehensible. This may also have to do with the country's public pressure on police departments to produce tangible results combined with an increased understanding of what type of policing is most effective.