Launched last Friday in Mt Evelyn, the initiative aims to challenge the over-representation of young people as offenders and victims of crime.

Each of the 10 police stations in the Yarra Ranges police service area will share the car on Friday and Saturday evenings to cover different zones and issues relevant to each area that week.

Leading Senior Constable Lisa Brooks of the Mt Evelyn police said the car would be used for youth-related jobs such as patrolling railway stations, bus stops, shopping centres, main streets and liquor outlets, as well as visiting any organised youth activities, parties and performing bail curfew checks.

"Local police who know the area and know the young people, and have the knowledge about what the problems are and where they're occurring, will direct how the car is used," she said.

"We're hoping stronger engagement with young people will not only reduce recidivism, violence and antisocial behaviour but also result in a reduction in time police spend at youth-related incidents."

The youth car is being trialled in the Yarra Ranges as part of a six-month pilot program.