Police intelligence shows that 40 percent of shoplifters are first-time offenders, with groceries, alcohol and clothing the main items stolen.
Victoria Police Acting Inspector Luke Holmes said a range of people from across society had been caught shoplifting.
“These are everyday Australians … These are mothers with children,” Holmes said.
Melbourne’s central business district recorded the most retail thefts in the state, with more than 2000 crimes last year.
Greater Geelong followed in second place and Casey in third, with both areas recording more than 1000 offences.
Stonington and Yarra also top the list of Melbourne theft hotspots.
Bigger retailers are arming themselves with high-tech security, but smaller business owners say they’re suffering the most.
Police are warning smaller business owners not to take matters into their own hands.
