Victorian bushfires
Rachel joined her fellow Legislative Council members in acknowledging the devastating impact of recent bushfires on Victorians and expressing gratitude to those who have volunteered and donated.
‘No excuse’ to ignore preventable gendered violence
Rachel presented a member’s statement, reflecting on the 16 days of activism against family and intimate partner violence. She spoke about the tragic murder of Hannah Clarke and her three children by their respective partner and father, with police ignoring multiple reports of violence and abuse until it was too late. Rachel calls on the government to direct their ‘tough on crime’ approach to address the systemic failures that lead to these tragic but preventable consequences.
Coercive control bill “a blunt instrument for a complex problem”
Rachel spoke on a family violence motion which would create a standalone offence for coercive control. She acknowledged the deeply disturbing prevalence of family and intimate partner violence, and its well-established connection with coercive control. Rachel spoke to the evidence arising from stakeholder consultation and law changes in New South Wales, noting that effectiveness of a standalone offence is contentious and could be underutilised or otherwise cause harmful, unintended consequences.
Protect workers without amplifying inequality
Rachel made a contribution to the Crimes Amendment (Retail, Fast Food, Hospitality and Transport Worker Harm) Bill 2025. She noted that a rise in retail theft is largely driven by cost-of-living increases. She asserted that while worker safety is essential, new laws must be fair and effective and not exacerbate inequality. As such, a two-year statutory review is essential to determine effectiveness and address any unintended consequences.
Wellsprings for Women: Story is Connection
Rachel spoke about her visit to Wellsprings for Women to watch a performance. Wellsprings for Women is a non-profit organisation in Dandenong, which supports women from migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds. Their performance entitled ‘Story is Connection’ highlights issues that have affected the lives of these women, exploring their stories of overcoming barriers with strength, resilience and compassion.
Non-disclosure agreement reforms lift veil of silence
Rachel welcomed reforms to legislation on non-disclosure agreements in workplace sexual harassment cases.
Rossdale Golf Course development proposal lands over par
Rachel intended to speak on a petition opposing the rezoning of Rossdale Golf Course in Aspendale for housing development. While she did not get a chance to speak in the chamber, Rachel’s speech is published, below.
Labor’s glaring hypocrisy on cannabis reform
Rachel spoke on a motion by Legalise Cannabis Victoria. The motion was a response to the Labor government’s continued criminalisation of cannabis. Rachel urged the Victorian Labor government to reconsider its position on cannabis decriminalisation, noting previous endorsement by Victorian Labor Members.
Judge bills on merit, not party lines
Rachel calls on the Victorian government to end their policy of not supporting private members bills. Private members bills give non-government members and backbenchers the opportunity to put forward proposals to change the law to be considered by the government.
Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill: Protecting the right to choose
Rachel spoke on the Voluntary Assisted Dying Amendment Bill 2025. Rachel acknowledges the evidence supporting individuals’ right to choose.