**Title: Stabbing in Melbourne CBD Raises Concerns Over Crime Rates** A recent stabbing incident in Melbourne's Central Business District has intensified discussions about rising crime rates in Victoria. The attack occurred on October 2 at approximately 7:40 a.m. A 36-year-old woman from West Melbourne was stabbed near the intersection of Little Bourke and Spencer streets. She was taken to the hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening. Authorities arrested a 32-year-old woman in connection with the attack. The suspect was charged with intentionally causing injury and committing an indictable offense while on bail. She appeared in court on October 3 and was remanded in custody. CCTV footage of the incident was released, prompting criticism of the state government. Premier Jacinta Allan described the attack as "absolutely sickening" and expressed her support for the victim and her family. She stated, "No one who commits brazen, violent acts like this should be on the streets," and thanked police for their swift response. The incident has drawn attention from political leaders. Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin supported claims by federal counterpart Sussan Ley that Victoria is becoming Australia’s crime capital. Battin stated, "There’s too many things now that it’s no longer just a coincidence that we’ve got the odd bit of crime. We’re actually at the stage now where violent crime is dominating airwaves." Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece defended the city, asserting that it remains safe despite a recent rise in crime. He acknowledged an 18 percent increase in crime across Victoria, primarily driven by theft. The stabbing has sparked outrage, particularly because the offender was on bail at the time. Critics are calling for the government to take stronger action against rising crime rates. Senator Bridget McKenzie remarked, "Broad daylight, crowded street, and you’ve got that type of behavior. It really is a graphic description of the lawlessness that the once great state of Victoria has fallen into." In response to the growing concerns, Battin proposed tougher laws to enhance public safety, including measures that would allow police to search for and seize knives before they can be used in attacks. To further improve safety in Melbourne, the city plans to deploy community safety officers in uniform starting at the end of October. These officers will be trained to handle hostile situations and will wear Kevlar vests and body cameras, although they will not carry firearms. The sister of the stabbing victim, Ivana Lai, shared the emotional toll the incident has taken on her family. She revealed that her sister has moved from her home of four years due to safety concerns. "She doesn’t dare to go out anymore; she’s always on guard," Lai said. "She can’t stand people walking behind her and keeps looking around nervously." As the community grapples with the implications of this attack, the debate over crime and safety in Victoria continues to unfold.