The Nationals have unveiled a comprehensive plan to crackdown on crime and make Victorian communities safer.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath said a future Liberal Nationals Government have announced it will commit $100 million to a “Safer Communities Plan” in government.
“Labor’s soft approach is not working, leaving many in our communities feeling unsafe.
“Our Safer Communities Plan builds on the Break Bail, Face Jail policy, introducing new measures including introducing a residential offender program and Jack’s Law,” said Ms Bath.
Break Bail, Face Jail laws will ensure there are consequences for first time and repeat offenders and will now be complemented by:
- The introduction of Jack’s Law for Victoria – to deliver police the power to conduct random searches of individuals in public areas to remove weapons such as machetes from our streets,
- The establishment of Restart – a Victorian-first residential responsibility and discipline program for offenders, and
- Youthstart – A co-ordinated community-based intervention program.
Ms Bath highlighted alarming figures from the Crime Statistics Agency, which reported a 17 per cent increase in crime across the local government areas of Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Cardinia, East Gippsland, Latrobe, South Gippsland, and Wellington in the past year.**
“Every resident deserves to live free from fear – reversing these concerning crime rates requires stronger bail laws, enhanced police powers, and meaningful investment in youth diversion programs.”
“Despite youth crime being at an all time high, Labor delivered just two prevention grants in the past two years, while 34 other diversion programs were closed.
“Instead of stepping up, the Allan Government cut funding for the very programs communities are pleading for.
“Latrobe Valley has the second-highest offence rate in the state, yet Labor has done nothing to follow through with its commitment to expand Victoria Police’s youth crime prevention and early intervention program into Gippsland.
“Fighting crime also involves preventing crime.
“The Allan Government must do more to divert youth offenders to help them make better decisions and end the crime cycle.”
** Crime Statistics Agency June 2024 comparison with June 2025
