The effects of economic hardship on crime levels are complex. Some crimes such as arson and fraudulent claims on motor vehicle insurance policies seem to be increasing, while crimes such as burglary and motor vehicle theft appear to be decreasing. The human cost associated with the fear of becoming a crime victim can also be profound. The cost of nonfatal assaults, including sexual assaults, is estimated to be at least $300 million per year. This estimate includes the provision of refuge accommodation for family violence victims, the provision of medical care for injuries inflicted on violence victims, and loss of earnings produced by injuries. State and territory programs award in excess of $20 million per year as criminal injury compensation to violence victims. Apart from actual losses experienced due to crime, there are also large expenses associated with operating Australia's criminal justice system. Keeping people in prison costs about $50,000 per offender each year for maximum security. Crime becomes even more costly in a time when the economy is depressed. Ways of reducing the cost of crime include promoting citizen responsibility for crime prevention, involving local government, implementing recommendations of Australia's National Committee on Violence, providing for crime victims, preventing fraud and corporate crime, reducing motor vehicle theft, reforming criminal laws and procedures, reducing criminal justice system expenses, and encouraging media reporting of crime. 4 references and 1 figure