Thursday, 31 July 2025

Community safety

Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:20): (986) My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Police. Crime using machetes is a contemporary issue which has seen some new restrictions introduced, both using Commonwealth powers and via legislation in this place, and subsequent regulations. These regulations are a dog’s breakfast. They are complex and convoluted, and the government’s explanation on the internet leaves me with yet more questions, not to mention these web-based explanations have no standing in court. I felt that the government was listening during the committee stage of the bill, but the output leaves me feeling otherwise, as there is no mention at all of recreational users, just a permit system. Minister, will you urgently revisit the regulations to ensure that they are reflective of the tone of the committee stage?

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:21): I thank Mr Bourman for his advocacy and his question in relation to this matter. I will make sure that I pass the question on to the police minister in the other place for an appropriate response in line with the standing orders.

Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:21): I thank the minister for his answer. Minister, I can find machetes on the internet for $27.95, and I am now told that LRD will not be issuing permits for recreational machetes anyway. So how does the government justify a $200-plus permit for a $27 knife?

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:21): In relation to the supplementary question, Mr Bourman, I will make sure that is passed on to the police minister in the other place for a response.