Libs’ plan to change state’s youth parole process to attack crime wave
NEW laws to change the way Victoria’s Youth Parole Board considers cases will be put to parliament by the Opposition in the wake of a recent crime wave and justice system riots.
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NEW laws to change the way Victoria’s Youth Parole Board considers cases will be put to parliament by the Opposition in the wake of a recent crime wave and justice system riots.
The Coalition plans to introduce a Private Members’ Bill that will explicitly enshrine in law that community safety be the paramount consideration for the Youth Parole Board and Youth Residential Board when deciding whether to release juvenile offenders.
Other changes would include forcing the board to publish more information about serious offences committed by parolees.
Similar changes were made to the Adult Parole Board after recommendations were made by former judge Ian Callinan following his review of the Jill Meagher rape and murder.
Opposition families and children spokeswoman Georgie Crozier said the legislation “will start toughening up the youth parole system so there’s a focus on community safety”.
“If Daniel Andrews is serious about getting tough on crime then he will set politics aside and work with us on passing this proposal,” she said.
The move to introduce new legislation comes after a new Galaxy poll published by the Herald Sun showed the majority of Victorians think the Andrews Government has lost control of youth crime.
However, the poll showed that Labor continues to lead the Coalition on a two-party preferred basis, 52-48.
Mr Andrews refused to comment on the poll results, but admitted that there was “always more to do”.
“I’m concerned to make sure that Graham Ashton, the Chief Commissioner, has got the resources, the laws, the support that he needs, and that’s exactly what the government has been delivering for the last two years,” Mr Andrews said.
“We will always look to do more ... there’s always more to do and I will never rest, no matter what opinion polls might or might not say.”
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said he was satisfied with the party’s primary vote — which is at 42 per cent — and “anyone picking an election two years out is crazy”.
He said the law and order results were stark.
“Victorians are very scared. This government’s not doing anything to combat crime,” Mr Guy said.