Feeling secure in your own home isn't a luxury—it's a basic human need that becomes even more precious as we age. But what happens when that sanctuary starts feeling like a target?
Entertainment reporter Peter Ford has made the decision to pack up and leave Melbourne, heading further up north in the country.
Ford is still undecided on where he's moving to, but he's told Ross and Russ he needs a 'new chapter and a new place'. 'I just need out,' he said on 3AW Breakfast.
Ford's drastic decision comes after a year that would test anyone's sense of security.
The Channel 7 and 3AW personality revealed he'd endured five break-in attempts at his Melbourne home this year, with intruders successfully entering once.
For many older Australians watching this story unfold, Ford's experience strikes an uncomfortably familiar chord.
The numbers tell a sobering story
Ford's experience isn't an isolated incident. Reported burglaries are up nearly 25 per cent year-on-year, with the most recent suburb-level data from 2024—2025 showing many areas rising well beyond that.
The scale of the problem is staggering. Burglary and break-and-enter offences in residential locations rose almost 19 per cent in the last year, according to that latest data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).
There were 30,831 offences recorded in Victorian residential areas for the year ending March 2025, compared to 25,918 offences the previous year.
'I am just disgusted with what is happening here'
For older Australians, these statistics represent more than numbers—they reflect a genuine threat to physical safety and peace of mind.
Burglars look for jewellery items such as rings, pendants and bracelets because they're small, easy to grab and conceal, and can quickly be turned into cash.
More than $28 million worth of jewellery was stolen from residences across Victoria in the year ending March 2025, according to the CSA.
When your neighbourhood changes
Ford described how his 'once lovely suburb' had become a place where drug users come to 'shoot up', with a homeless person camping near his bedroom window who would 'scream out in the middle of the night.'
For many seniors, this transformation of familiar neighbourhoods represents one of the most distressing aspects of ageing in place.
The psychological impact extends beyond the immediate threat. When you've invested decades building a life in a community, watching it change can feel like losing part of your identity.
Relocation considerations for seniors
- Research crime statistics in potential new locations
- Consider proximity to healthcare services and family
- Factor in cost of living differences between states
- Evaluate public transport and community services
- Assess whether you qualify for interstate pensioner discounts
- Consider the emotional cost of leaving established social networks
However, relocating later in life involves complex considerations beyond crime rates. Healthcare access, proximity to family, established social networks, and the significant emotional toll of leaving a lifetime of memories all play crucial roles in such decisions.
Securing your current home
Before packing up entirely, there are practical steps that can significantly improve home security, particularly for older Australians who may be seen as more vulnerable targets.
Essential security upgrades
Modern security doesn't have to be complicated. Motion-sensor lights, doorbell cameras, and simple alarm systems can deter most opportunistic break-ins. The key is creating multiple layers of security that make your home a less attractive target than others nearby.
Window and door reinforcements remain the most effective first line of defence. Many break-ins occur through forced entry at weak points that could be strengthened relatively inexpensively.
What burglars target in Australian homes
Based on Victorian Crime Statistics Agency data, the most commonly stolen items from residences include jewellery, electronics, cash, and personal documents. Seniors should consider secure storage options for valuable items and important paperwork, including safety deposit boxes or home safes bolted to the structure.
Creating a security network
One of the most effective deterrents costs nothing—establishing good relationships with neighbours. Visible community connections signal that people are watching out for each other. This is particularly valuable for older residents who may spend more time at home during traditional work hours.
The broader conversation
Ford's story has reignited debate about community safety and government responses. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has described recent bail law changes as the 'toughest in the country,' but critics argue they're not effectively protecting residents.
The number of criminal incidents recorded by Victoria Police in the year to 30 June 2025 was 483,583, up 18.3 per cent from 408,930 incidents recorded in the same period last year. These numbers suggest the problem extends well beyond individual experiences.
Finding the right balance
Ford's decision represents one valid response to feeling unsafe, but it's not the only option. Some older Australians are choosing to invest in security upgrades, others are relocating within their current city to safer areas, and many are working with community groups to improve neighbourhood watch programs.
The key is acknowledging that concerns about safety aren't overreactions—they're legitimate responses to real statistical increases in property crime.
Making informed decisions
Whether you choose to stay and secure your current home or consider relocation like Peter Ford, the decision should be based on careful consideration of your personal circumstances, not fear alone.
Research your options thoroughly. If considering a move, visit potential new locations multiple times and at different times of day. Speak with local residents, particularly other seniors, about their experiences with safety and community support.
For those staying put, consider a professional security assessment. Many companies offer free consultations that can identify vulnerabilities you might not have considered.
The community response
Ford's public discussion of his situation has sparked conversations across social media and radio, with many Australians sharing similar experiences.
This openness is valuable—it helps normalise discussions about safety concerns and can lead to better community responses.
Local councils and community groups are increasingly recognising that seniors' safety concerns require targeted approaches that go beyond general crime prevention strategies.
The conversation Ford has started matters because it addresses a reality many older Australians face but may hesitate to discuss.
Feeling unsafe in your own home affects mental health, social engagement, and overall quality of life in ways that extend far beyond the immediate security concerns.
What's your experience with community safety where you live? Have you considered making changes to improve your sense of security at home, or have you thought about relocating for peace of mind? Share your thoughts and experiences with fellow members—sometimes the best advice comes from those who've walked a similar path.
Primary Source
https://www.news.com.au/entertainme...b899cabbdd4fcfd09f034270e04ca8?from=rss-basic
Why Peter Ford has decided to pack up and leave Melbourne
Cited text: Entertainment reporter Peter Ford has made the decision to pack up and leave Melbourne, heading further up north in the country. Ford is still undecid...
Excerpt: Entertainment reporter Peter Ford has made the decision to pack up and leave Melbourne, heading further up north in the country.
https://www.3aw.com.au/why-peter-ford-has-decided-to-pack-up-and-leave-melbourne/
Melbourne Burglary Crime Data—Top Crime Suburbs
Cited text: Reported burglaries are up nearly 25 per cent year-on-year, with the most recent suburb-level data from 2024—2025 showing many areas rising well beyond that.
Excerpt: Reported burglaries are up nearly 25 per cent year-on-year, with the most recent suburb-level data from 2024—2025 showing many areas rising well beyond that.
https://www.titanshutters.com.au/crime-data/
Commonly stolen items targeted by burglars | RACV
Cited text: Burglary and break-and-enter offences in residential locations rose almost 19 per cent in the last year, according to that latest data from the Victor...
Excerpt: Burglary and break-and-enter offences in residential locations rose almost 19 per cent in the last year, according to that latest data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).
https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/property/insurance/what-burglars-want-to-steal.html
Commonly stolen items targeted by burglars | RACV
Cited text: Burglars look for jewellery items such as rings, pendants and bracelets because they're small, easy to grab and conceal, and can quickly be turned int...
Excerpt: Burglars look for jewellery items such as rings, pendants and bracelets because they're small, easy to grab and conceal, and can quickly be turned into cash.
https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/property/insurance/what-burglars-want-to-steal.html
Recorded Crime—Victims, 2024 | Australian Bureau of Statistics
Cited text: There were 45,273 victims of unlawful entry with intent recorded in Queensland in 2024, a decrease of 9 per cent (4,217 victims) from the previous year.
Excerpt: There were 45,273 victims of unlawful entry with intent recorded in Queensland in 2024, a decrease of 9 per cent (4,217 victims) from the previous year.
https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/crime-and-justice/recorded-crime-victims/latest-release
Homepage | Crime Statistics Agency Victoria
Cited text: The number of criminal incidents recorded by Victoria Police in the year to 30 June 2025 was 483,583, up 18.3 per cent from 408,930 incidents recorded in the ...
Excerpt: The number of criminal incidents recorded by Victoria Police in the year to 30 June 2025 was 483,583, up 18.3 per cent from 408,930 incidents recorded in the same period last year.
https://www.crimestatistics.vic.gov.au/
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so sad. 
