Australia’s national crime research centre has cast doubt over the effectiveness of CCTV cameras in reducing crime despite the promise of more technology on Melbourne streets in high-profile election pledges.

Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle yesterday committed to having another 10 cameras - worth $30,000 each - placed across the city if re-elected, starting with Hosier and Rutledge lanes, which run off Flinders Street.

Robert Doyle launched his campaign for re-election as Lord Mayor of Melbourne earlier this week. Credit:Eddie Jim

Cr Doyle’s policy launch, made alongside victims of crime supporters, came two days after federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott was in Chapel Street promising a Coalition government would spend $50 million putting more cameras in hot spots across Australia.

The pledges came within three weeks of CCTV footage helping police identify the man accused of raping and murdering Jill Meagher, who was abducted from Brunswick. Cr Doyle and Mr Abbott both said they supported CCTV technology in fighting crime long before that high-profile case.