Victorian Premier has pledged to implement the toughest bail laws in Australia in response to rising violent crime rates in the state. Recent investigations by A Current Affair revealed that young offenders are able to purchase dangerous bladed weapons, such as knives and machetes, from retailers at minimal prices, starting as low as $10.
During a visit to a discount warehouse in Melbourne’s south-east, numerous knives and machetes were found displayed on shelves without proper security measures. Store staff confirmed that they request identification from customers to verify they are over 18; however, this has raised concerns about accessibility for minors. Following the broadcast, the state government announced plans to enforce stricter regulations around machetes as a component of broader bail reforms. Currently, while machetes are classified as "controlled weapons" under Victorian law, they can only be sold to those over 18 and utilised for legitimate purposes, such as agriculture or gardening.
The announcement comes as distressing accounts from local families, such as Jesse and Rachel, highlight the urgent need for reform. They shared their traumatic experience of being targeted by armed intruders who broke into their home, leaving them feeling unsafe and ultimately compelled to relocate interstate. Jesse recounted harrowing moments captured on their doorbell camera, where he faced attackers wielding machetes. He expressed the fear of bleeding to death after being brutally assaulted during the invasion.
As communities await further details on the proposed machete ban, the ongoing plight of crime victims remains a pressing issue. The government’s response, though swift, is viewed by some as insufficient in addressing the profound impact of violent crime on individuals and families across Victoria. The investigation into the home invasion endured by Jesse and Rachel is still in progress as public concern grows over weapon accessibility and overall community safety.