Tuesday, 11 August 2026

 Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Victim Support, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Community Sport) (14:12): I rise today to update the house on the Carroll Labor government’s commitment to keeping Victorians safe. Every Victorian has the right to feel safe in their home, in their community and in their local neighbourhood. That is why we have made community safety the key consideration when determining whether bail is granted. There are also tougher bail tests for those charged with serious offences and tougher consequences for breaking bail. These changes are already making a difference, sharpening the focus on community safety and reducing the number of violent and repeat offenders in the community. And we have invested $956 million to expand our correctional facilities and enhance safety and service delivery across the corrections and youth justice systems. We also know that the evidence shows that for most young people diversion from the justice system and early intervention are the most effective approaches to reduce reoffending.

Our reforms do not end there, and we understand that when a crime has been committed victims must be supported. That is why we introduced the financial assistance scheme, a model that is victim centred, allowing Victorians impacted by crime to access counselling, medical services and safety expenses, along with other expenses that may help their recovery. Since 2024 we have invested more than $470 million in the scheme. Any victim of crime is one too many, and my thoughts are with those who have been affected by criminal behaviour. Along with the Premier and the Minister for Police, I want to thank Victoria Police, corrections and youth justice staff and all victim support services for the work that they do every single day to keep Victorians safe.