Premier Jacinta Allan has pledged to reform the state’s bail regulations, yet recent experiences of crime victims cast doubt on the sincerity of her commitment. Adele Andrews, a Melbourne mother of two, expressed her fears following a break-in at her home by armed robbers wielding machetes, while her family slept. She articulated frustration at the lack of effective change, proclaiming, “Something is very, very wrong and I don’t know what it’s going to take for something to change.”
Andrews called for the enforcement of consequences for criminals, asserting that they operate without fear of repercussions. She remarked on the pervasive feeling that government actions amount to “a lot of lip service,” echoing a sentiment shared by many residents affected by crime.
In response, Premier Allan maintained that she is attuned to the community’s concerns and is taking action. “There were changes that have been made, that we’ll need to address; we’ll have more to say soon,” she stated, emphasising her commitment to prioritising this issue and showcasing that reform is underway.
While Allan insists on taking decisive steps, the opposition raised concerns about her focus, noting that significant time was spent recently by the Attorney-General promoting housing reforms alongside her rather than addressing pressing crime issues. The current parliamentary session includes discussions on weapon control laws, with the opposition advocating for a strict ban on machetes—a move reportedly not supported by the Labor party.
Shadow police minister David Southwick described the situation as a critical turning point for Allan, stressing the necessity for immediate action. Meanwhile, Allan stated her intention to await further guidance before making decisions, suggesting hesitation in her response. “I’m looking at what more needs to be done,” she stated, reflecting her desire to carefully navigate the situation.
As the community continues to voice their concerns, the call for significant changes in legislation and a robust approach to crime remains urgent and pressing.