Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s campaign in Melbourne included a heavy focus on crime.
While normally a state issue, the former Queensland police officer has put a major focus on the issue given its resonance with voters at recent elections.
Dutton argues the federal government’s border security responsibility can be linked to local crime, such as drug and illegal tobacco smuggling.
He has also pledged to use federal funding as leverage to push states towards uniform laws on knife-related offences.
“We can provide funding opportunities and incentivise state governments to pass laws,” Dutton told ABC Radio.
Dutton also vowed to “make Victoria a safer place” by implementing federal measures to support law enforcement.
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“There are nationally consistent laws that we can champion at a federal level and coordinate with the states,” he said. “We’ve put a plan in place to reduce knife crime, as has been successfully done in other jurisdictions.”
Crime Surge in Victoria
Dutton’s push comes amid growing concern over rising crime rates in Victoria.
The state recorded 578,762 offences in the year leading to September 2024, marking a 13.4 percent increase—or 68,536 additional cases—compared to the previous year.
The surge is largely driven by property crimes, particularly theft from motor vehicles, which has hit a record high of 68,042 offences.
Law and order concerns are particularly pronounced in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, where economic hardship has exacerbated tensions.
This issue played a major role in two state by-elections in Victoria, which saw major swings against the incumbent Labor government.
Allan’s Response: Tougher Bail Laws
In response to safety concerns, the Victorian government has introduced changes to the state’s bail laws after ongoing pressure.
The new legislation, described as the “toughest bail laws ever,” overhauls decision-making processes and removes the “last resort” principle for youth offenders, making detention more likely for those facing serious charges.
Premier Jacinta Allan defended the reforms, saying they prioritise community safety.
“I have listened and I have acted. These tough bail laws will jolt the system—community safety above all, toughest bail laws ever, and consequences for breaking the rules,” she said.
In addition to bail reforms, the state government is banning machetes, expanding police search powers, and introducing stricter bail tests for knife-related offences.
AAP contributed to this article.
