Victoria is sleeping on police shortage solutions
While Rachel agreed upon the temporary measure to support Victoria Police at a time of police shortage, she reiterated several long-term solutions that would free up police time and resources.
Crimes Amendment Bill 2026 enhances police powers to prosecute protestors
Rachel spoke on the Crimes Amendment Bill 2026, expressing why the bill will not be supported by Legalise Cannabis Victoria.
The amendment will make it easier for police to commence adult prosecutions for serious vilification offences, as police would no longer need consent from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). This raises serious concerns around protest, as the government have been unable to answer as to which behaviours they are seeking to prosecute more readily.
Expand IBAC powers to stamp out political corruption
Rachel intended to speak in support of a bill to expand the powers of the Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC).
Support for inquiry into IBAC funding
Rachel intended to speak in support of a motion to require a committee inquiry into funding for the Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC), the Ombudsman and Integrity Oversight Victoria.
12% of arrests, 1% of the population: Cannabis policing in Victoria
Rachel asked if the government would redirect resources from criminalisation of small amounts of cannabis to addressing serious violent crime.
Vicarious Liability legislation: examining the details
Rachel questioned terms and clauses in the government’s Justice Legislation Amendment (Vicarious Liability) Bill 2025. Key concerns included wording and terminology that could leave certain clauses open to interpretation.
Your Reference Ain’t Relevant
New South Wales have committed to a law change, removing ‘good character’ evidence as a mitigating factor for offenders during sentencing. Rachel posed a question to the Attorney-General, asking when similar reform will be considered in Victoria.
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.
‘Post and boast’ performance crimes
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.
Bail amendments target the marginalised
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.