Victoria Premier defends tough bail laws' effectiveness

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has defended new tough bail laws, saying they won't trap young people in a cycle of reoffending. Critics argue the reforms lack evidence and may worsen criminal behavior. Ms. Allan believes action is necessary due to a high crime rate, stating there have been many home invasions and young people carrying dangerous weapons. Retail owners report a significant rise in crimes involving weapons over the past year. In another story, Independent MP Andrew Wilkie has called for an inquiry into the Tasmanian salmon industry. He accused the government of protecting the industry amid allegations of poor hygiene and animal welfare. This follows mass deaths of fish, which led to 5,500 tonnes being dumped in February. The RSPCA has withdrawn certification from one salmon farm over these concerns. Mr. Wilkie is worried about diseased fish being sold to the public, which the industry denies. Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is pushing for regulations on supermarkets to address rising living costs. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission released a report stating that supermarkets are highly profitable and made recommendations for reform. If elected, Mr. Dutton promises to protect consumers from being overcharged for groceries. Meanwhile, the government plans to spend $2.9 million in the next budget to support supermarket suppliers. A recent poll shows Labor and the Coalition are nearly equally popular ahead of the Federal Election. The YouGov poll indicates both major parties are tied at 50-50. Labor had a slight lead recently, boosted by its response to extreme weather and support for Ukraine. Despite the close race, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is still more favored than Mr. Dutton as preferred leader. In international news, an eastern DRC rebel leader has ignored ceasefire calls from the Congolese and Rwandan governments. The M-23 rebels have made significant advances, capturing a town after intense fighting. The leader, Corneille Nangaa, claims they feel they have nothing to lose and will continue to fight. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced plans for allied countries to establish a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Upcoming meetings will discuss an international peacekeeping force, which could include 30,000 troops. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering contributing to this force. In sports, Brazil secured a late victory against Colombia in a World Cup qualifier, with a penalty goal scored in stoppage time. This victory keeps Brazil in second place in South American qualifiers. In another match, Peru beat Bolivia, helping their World Cup chances, while Paraguay also claimed a win against Chile.