Summary
Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin has accused Premier Jacinta Allan’s government of failing to tackle a growing crime crisis, citing widespread public fear and repeated violent incidents across Melbourne.
Opposition Leader Brad Battin has sharply criticized the Allan Labor government over its handling of what he calls Victoria’s “escalating crime crisis,” after multiple machete-related attacks in Melbourne sparked renewed safety concerns.
Battin said police officers were “angry” and frustrated that bail laws remain weak, allowing repeat offenders back on the streets. He condemned the government’s crime response, arguing that its machete ban and three-month amnesty program have failed to stop the surge in violent attacks.
Premier Jacinta Allan defended her government’s policies, insisting that new knife control laws are “working.” However, the Opposition pointed to a recent Melbourne Council report showing three in five residents feel unsafe at night, and daytime safety perceptions have also declined.
Battin urged stronger bail laws under a potential Liberal-Nationals government, promising new measures like “Break Bail, Face Jail” and “Jack’s Law” to empower police to remove knives from the streets.
He warned that ongoing violence is driving fear among residents and hurting local businesses: “Victorians need to feel safe each and every day — enough is enough.”