The Victorian Premier has acknowledged that "community expectations are not being fulfilled" following a promise to implement new measures. "strictest bail regulations" nationwide .
Talking with Tom Steinfort and Alicia Loxley on 9News, Jacinta Allan mentioned she had been hearing from victims.
Allan mentioned that he has been hearing about their experiences as well as those of their families. He also stated that he has gone through their emails.
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The letters I have received as premier have made it clear to me that the community's expectations are not being fulfilled.
We must strengthen the legislation. It’s crucial to halt this recurring cycle of conduct, especially among individuals who are out on bail.
Earlier today, Allan revealed the modifications, stressing that they aim to place "community safety at the forefront of decisions regarding bail."
The suggested legislation means that imprisonment will not be considered the final option for young individuals who perpetrate grave offenses.
In 2023, the government relaxed bail regulations by removing provisions related to committing a serious offense while on bail and violating bail terms.
The revised bail laws will reinstate these provisions following Allan’s acknowledgment that the Labor government “made a mistake”.
As part of an effort to combat knife violence, the authorities plan to prohibit the use of machetes.
Allan mentioned that she anticipated observing an increase in the number of individuals held on remand due to these alterations, which are scheduled to progress through parliament the following week.
Allan pointed out that prioritizing community safety in decisions, implementing stricter testing measures, and establishing a new offense for crimes committed while on bail will likely result in more individuals being held on remand.
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What is changing
Machetes will be classified as banned weapons, though exceptions can be made for lawful purposes.
The introduction of the first Strong Bail Bill will also take place, establishing a new criterion aimed at tackling habitual criminals.
Stricter bail regulations will be implemented for severe and high-risk crimes, which encompass serious firearm offenses, arson cases, as well as various blade and weapons-related incidents such as machete attacks.
Under the revised regulations, individuals accused of non-aggravated home invasions and carjackings will encounter stricter criteria when applying for bail as well.
It will become more difficult to secure bail under the new legislation. The law ensures that individuals accused of committing a serious crime while already out on bail for a comparable offense won’t receive bail again unless there’s a “substantial likelihood” they won’t commit another offense.
Individuals who perpetrate a serious crime while out on bail will come under a second-strike policy, indicating that they will find it tough to demonstrate "strong justification" for being awarded bail again.
The new legislation will abolish the practice of considering remand as the final option.
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'The alterations will have an impact'
The Police Association of Victoria supported these changes.
“Upon implementation, these modifications will create significant change, shifting the balance back towards protecting decent, innocent individuals and families who have a rightful claim to security within their residences, vehicles, and public spaces,” stated Secretary Wayne Gatt.
Ideally,these reforms will swiftly clear Parliament and enhance the efforts ofour members who apprehend criminals and removethem from our neighborhoods initially.
The responsibility will shortly return to the courts to take action in support of community safety and its protection, rather than acting against it.
It follows closely after dozens of demonstrators and individuals affected by criminal acts staged a march through the city. Victorian city of Bendigo , pushing for stricter bail legislation.
"Issues must be addressed for the sake of our kids who represent our future. We're tired of constantly being watchful, and now more than ever, Jacinda Allan needs to listen as action is required," stated rally organizer Tanya Mallia earlier today.
Last month, Acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent disclosed this information. had already discussed bail reform measures with the government and highlighted the importance of the force undergoing areset.
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