Labor’s machete ban a band-aid for a broken bail system

The Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has condemned the Allan Labor Government’s rushed machete sales ban as a hollow response to a much deeper issue – Victoria’s dangerously weak bail laws.

Mr McCurdy said yet another machete attack carried out by offenders already on bail highlights the consequences of Labor’s failure to take community safety seriously.

“For years, The Nationals and Liberals have demanded stronger bail laws and tougher action on violent crime,” Mr McCurdy said. “But under Labor, Victoria’s justice system has been watered down to the point where repeat offenders face minimal consequences.”

“Now, after another horrifying machete incident, Labor has scrambled to look tough by banning the sale of machetes – a move they previously said couldn’t be done until September.”

Mr McCurdy criticised the Premier for refusing to support a 2023 amendment from The Nationals and Liberals that would have classified machetes as prohibited weapons.

“This Government ignored warnings for years, only acting now in the face of public outrage and political pressure,” he said.

“But banning the sale of machetes doesn’t address the core issue. It’s a band-aid solution that leaves dangerous weapons on our streets and violent offenders free to roam.”

“We need real reform – a ban on machete possession and tougher bail laws that hold offenders accountable and put community safety first.”

Labor can’t manage community safety, and Victorians are paying the price.