Rachel asked a question on behalf of a constituent. Like so many others, Rachel’s constituent uses cannabis for pain management. Given the Government’s recent rejection of cannabis reform recommendations, Rachel inquired on the criminalisation of vulnerable community members.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have successfully managed the seas, sky and country for 60,000 plus years. They are the oldest continuous living culture on earth. And they have been asking us to walk with them. Treaty is our chance.
On behalf of a constituent, Rachel asked the government about staffing cuts to the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.
Rachel called on the Minister for Police to decriminalise cannabis. Violent crimes have taken precedence in allocation of police resources. However, cannabis arrests are still occurring, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people statistically overrepresented. Decriminalisation would ensure that police resources can be prioritised where they are most needed.
Rachel asked the government to take meaningful steps to eradicate the deeply ingrained homophobic culture in the Australian Football League.
Harmful carcinogens, neurotoxins, PFAS and ultrafine particles are emitted by the hazardous waste landfill site on Taylor’s Road in Dandenong South, yet these emissions are not monitored by the EPA. Rachel asked for an expansion on the types of emissions which the EPA monitors, to ensure air quality for constituents in the vicinity of this site.
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.
The proposed rezoning of Rossdale Golf Course for residential purposes has caused community unrest due to environmental concerns and a lack of community input. On behalf of a constituent, Rachel asked for assurance that thorough environmental assessments will be completed before greenlighting any development.
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.
