Photo: WA Today

Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Bateson said that police are preparing for the influx of thousands of school leavers across Victoria this weekend, including in popular coastal destinations like the Surf Coast, Mornington Peninsula and Bass Coast regions.

“We’ll be boosting patrols in and around licensed venues, accommodation sites, including private residences, targeting alcohol-fuelled violence, drug offences and anti-social behaviour,” Acting AC Bateson said.

“Completing school is a significant achievement for young people and we’ll be out and about to make sure school leavers celebrate their well-deserved break safely and responsibly.

“We know the majority of schoolies do the right thing and look after their mates, but every year we’ve seen a number school leavers partaking in risky behaviour and ruining the fun for everyone else.

“Our message to those schoolies is to think before you act, and don’t spoil the schoolies break for you or your friends by taking the celebrations too far.

“We also encourage school leavers to be careful about how they use social networking platforms during schoolies.

"Smartphones with access to messaging apps and social networking sites are a great way to stay in touch with your friends, but when you post something online, it can be shared and seen by many people in a matter of seconds, including your family or even a future employer."

Acting AC Bateson said it’s also important to show respect for the communities, venues and private property you might be visiting.

“At the end of the day, we want school leavers celebrate safely in a way that is considerate of the communities they are celebrating in.

“Police will be monitoring schoolie hot spots to ensure everyone is celebrating responsibly and ensure the impact on the community is minimised. If you need help, please speak to a police member or call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.”

For further information about staying safe during schoolies week, including advice for school leavers and parents, visit www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/schoolies.