Melina Bath MP – Bail laws remain weaker than 12 months ago
Victorian bail laws remain weaker than they were 12 months ago despite Allan Labor Government’s Bail Bill passing state parliament.
During the debate, Labor was embarrassingly forced to remove the word ‘tough’ from the Bill title with opposition and independent MP’s labelling it unacceptable virtue signalling.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath MP called out the Allan Government for its soft approach on crime.
“Crime is at a 20 year high, with home invasions and violent offences surging locally and statewide – Labor’s reforms don’t go far enough and fail to recognise victim impact.”
During her contribution Ms Bath described Labor’s bail reforms as under cooked and flawed.
“The Allan Government has not prioritised community safety as there is still no serious consequences for repeat adult offenders who breach bail.
“Communities will be dismayed to learn no offence will be recorded for a breach of bail for youth offenders and that no bail test will be applied for criminals who commit serious offences such as arson, burglary, and robbery.
“Brazen repeat offenders will still think they are able to act with impunity.
“Residents deserve a justice system that prioritises their safety, bail must be considered a privilege and not a right.”
Ms Bath called out Labor for caring more about polls and headlines than humans.
“The Allan Government opposed the Liberals and Nationals amendments to make breaching bail an indictable offence as a replacement for a downgraded summary offence.
“It is incredibly disappointing that Labor refused to treat bail breaches with the seriousness they deserve and apply heavier penalties.
“Labor can’t manage the state’s crime crisis and Victorians are paying the price.”