Police say they’ll be focusing on the region's economic downturn, amid fears it could be a long-term driver for crime.

Geelong Superintendent Paul Pottage says there’s a risk of a low-paced, long-term increase in crime as locals struggle to survive and care for their families.

He says increased stress results in higher incidences of family violence and alcohol and drug abuse, which in turn prompts some people to turn to crime.

Superintendant Pottage says Geelong's biggest crime problems are family violence, youth issues, robbery and burglary.