The harsher bail laws implemented by the Victorian government may have a negative impact on halting youth crime, a criminologist claims.

There has been a 17.1 per cent increase in crime in the year to March 31, going from 627,268 criminal offences in March 2024 up to 535,576 in March this year, according to Victoria's latest crime statistics.

Violent crimes such as the stabbing deaths of two teenagers in Melbourne's west earlier this month have shocked the nation and increased pressure on Premier Jacinta Allan.

Factors such as the cost of living have been a big contributor, according to experts.

The Allan government has responded by introducing a ban on machetes and tightening bail laws within the state, including bringing in a second strike rule that means the bail

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