PUBLIC transport groups and police have called for constant real-time monitoring of CCTV surveillance at train stations to stem rising crime.

The Herald Sun has revealed Victoria's public transport system is more dangerous than those in London, New York and NSW.

But Premier John Brumby, defending his Government's record yesterday, blamed last year's spike in public transport crime on car park crime.

"These statistics are basically . . . thefts of mobile phones and GPSs in car parks," he said.

However, public transport figures show violent crime went up 16.9 per cent in 2007, including a 24.2 per cent increase in robberies and a 17.3 per cent increase in assault.

But Lilydale police said yesterday that real-time surveillance had slashed crime at local train stations.

All Melbourne train stations have CCTV surveillance.

But Lilydale was the first to get a camera radio link, beaming vision to monitors at Lilydale police station.

Sgt Terry Avery said the program had cut reported crime on the line by 77 per cent.

"To be effective -- this is the most important thing -- it has to be in real time," he said.

"If you're just recording footage, and responding later, you're being reactive -- it has little effect."

In February 2005, police recorded about 240 serious incidents in Lilydale station's car park. In February 2008, that had dropped to 50.

Croydon and Mooroolbark have had radio links installed, and Ringwood is about to get them.

The cameras, funded by Connex and local traders and a federal grant, cost about $9000 for six, Sgt Avery said.

Public Transport Users Association president Daniel Bowen said the Government should roll the initiative out across all stations.

Transit Police Supt Chris O'Neill acknowledged a rise in violent crime was a concern.