Victoria will soon have a dedicated service for people to report sexual harassment and offensive behaviour on public transport.

Victoria Police is launching a new tool called STOPIT, which is designed to enable people who are victims of or witnesses to harassment on public transport to text a number and alert transit police to the incident.

The person is given a link to submit information about the behaviour, including any photos they are able to take. 

Superintendent Alison Boyes from Victoria Police says most incidents on public transport go unreported.

“We have a very high rate of identifying offenders for reported incidents so, by telling us, we can do something about it,” she said.

“Any situation which makes someone feel unsafe or uncomfortable is not OK.

“We want to hear about people's experiences so we can help make the network a safe place for everyone.”

Assistant Commissioner Dean McWhirter from Transit and Public Safety Command says Victoria Police are the first force in Australia to use such technology.

“It's a demonstration of our commitment to ensure unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport is called out for what it is - and that's completely unacceptable,” he said.

“STOPIT will give police a better understanding of exactly what's occurring and most importantly boost our ability to identify perpetrators and hold them to account.”

People are urged to report unwanted sexual behaviours, as well as anti-social behaviour including verbal abuse, threatening behaviour, and vandalism.

To initiate the service, people can text 'STOPIT' to 0499 455 455. For immediate police assistance, if people are in danger, or to report a crime in progress, Victorian Police reminds travellers to always call Triple (000). The Victoria Police website specifically states that STOPIT is not monitored live.