Thursday, 4 June 2026

 Kim O’KEEFFE (Shepparton) (10:03): I rise today to speak about a significant issue in my community, following a number of recent incidents involving young people in Shepparton. Recent physical, serious acts of violence have left victims traumatised, families distressed and many members of the community deeply concerned about the safety of their children. Victoria Police are currently investigating these incidents. My thoughts are with those who have been affected, and no child or family should have to deal with this. Every member of our community has the right to feel safe at school, on our streets and in their daily lives. We must ensure that the police, schools, youth services and the broader community work together to do all that we can to stop this unacceptable, criminal and alarming behaviour. But we cannot do it alone. The government must ensure these agencies and all involved have the resources, funding and support they need to intervene early, engage with vulnerable young people and respond when problems arise.

When young people find themselves heading down the wrong path, we need strong intervention, meaningful support and clear accountability to help turn lives around before more harm is done. Clearly what is being done is not working and these are not isolated incidents. The rise in youth crime and youth violence has increased, but what is incredibly alarming is the young age of many of these offenders. If this is what some of our young people are capable of, we have to stand together to stop this disgusting, criminal and unacceptable behaviour. The father of one of the victims said, ‘It is time for change, and enough is enough.’