Victoria to Introduce Australia’s Toughest Bail Laws

The Victorian government has promised a major shake-up to the state's bail system, introducing the toughest bail laws in Australia.

Premier Jacinta Allan made the announcement today, making it clear that community safety will now come first in bail decisions.

Jail No Longer a Last Resort for Serious Youth Offenders

One of the biggest changes? Jail will no longer be treated as a last resort for young offenders who commit serious crimes.

"It’s clear that our current bail laws aren’t working," Allan said. "We’re seeing repeat offenders get back on the streets too easily. That has to change."

What’s Changing? 

Here’s what the new laws will bring:

• Machetes will be banned – They’ll become a prohibited weapon, with exceptions only for legitimate use.

• Harsher bail conditions – Serious and high-risk crimes like gun offences, arson, home invasions, carjackings, and knife violence will be much harder to get bail for.

• Repeat offenders face a tougher test – If someone commits a serious offence while already on bail, they won’t get bail again unless they can prove there’s a high chance they won’t reoffend.

• Second-strike rule – If an offender commits another indictable offence while on bail, they’ll have to prove “compelling reasons” why they should be released.

• No more “remand as a last resort” – This principle will be scrapped, making it easier to keep repeat offenders behind bars.

Support from Police & Community Calls for Action

The Police Association of Victoria has thrown its support behind the reforms, calling them a big win for law-abiding Victorians.

"These changes will shift the balance back towards protecting good, innocent people and families," said Police Association Secretary Wayne Gatt.

The announcement comes just a day after dozens of protesters and victims of crime marched through Bendigo, demanding tougher bail laws.

Rally leader Tanya Mallia summed it up: "We’re sick of looking over our shoulders. Jacinta Allan needs to hear us—something needs to be done."

What Happens Next?

The government is pushing to get these tough new laws through Parliament quickly. Acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent has already been in talks with the government about bail reforms, emphasizing that change is needed now.

One thing’s clear—Victoria’s justice system is about to get a whole lot tougher on repeat offenders.