Rachel introduced the Summary Offences Amendment (Begging) Bill 2025. If passed, this bill would bring Victoria in line with NSW, WA and ACT in decriminalising begging. Currently in Victoria, begging is a criminal offence, carrying a maximum 12-month prison sentence, and hefty fines.
The Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Amendment (Right to Housing) Bill 2025 was second read in the Legislative Council on the 27th of August. Rachel supported the bill however did not get the chance to present her speech in the chamber.
Rachel spoke on the Crimes Amendment (Performance Crime) Bill 2025. Rachel acknowledged community fears around an increase in crime, with criminals ‘posting and boasting’ about their offences. However, she expressed that this amendment creates a “slippery slope” that could lead to unintended consequences. Rachel questioned the Minister on the impacts of this bill on drug offences, youth incarceration and homophobic attacks.
Rachel spoke on the Bail Further Amendment Bill 2025. She criticised the bill for introducing harsh measures likely to disproportionately affect young and marginalised people, with limited consultation and safeguards. She called for a more evidence-based, rehabilitative approach to youth crime, proposing a sunset clause on the new bail test to ensure accountability and future review.
Rachel made a contribution to the Roads and Ports Legislation Amendment (Road Safety and Other Matters) Bill 2025. On behalf of Legalise Cannabis Victoria, Rachel proposed amendments, advocating that medicinal cannabis that does not impair driving must be treated in the same manner as other prescription drugs.
Rachel Payne made a contribution in parliament to the Retirement Villages Amendment Bill 2024, on behalf of Legalise Cannabis Victoria, and her colleague David Ettershank MP.
Rachel contributed to the Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, speaking to the need for mandatory changes to minimise gambling harms.
Rachel Payne MP has vowed to keep pushing the government to make institutions accountable for the historic child sexual abuse, but she was unable to secure a law change this week.
Rachel spoke on the Wrongs Amendment (Vicarious Liability) Bill 2025, which was debated on Wednesday the 14th of May. This bill was presented by Rachel on behalf of Legalise Cannabis Victoria, intending to close a legal loophole impacting victim-survivors of historical child sexual abuse.
Rachel presented the second reading of the Wrongs Amendment (Vicarious Liability) Bill 2025, on behalf of Legalise Cannabis Victoria. She initially introduced the bill to the Legislative Council on the 19th of February. Rachel also tabled a statement of compatibility with the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 prior to the second reading.
