Victoria reforms bail laws to manage prisoner influx

Victoria is set to stagger bail reforms to manage an expected rise in prisoners. The government plans to introduce parts of the new bail laws later to ensure enough corrections staff are available. Many people are anticipated to be remanded as a result of these changes. Premier Jacinta Allan stated that the justice system currently has capacity for immediate reform. She mentioned that Corrections Victoria is recruiting more staff to handle the expected influx. Opposition leader Michael O’Brien said the Coalition would seek amendments but would not block the bill's passage. The proposed reforms will alter how judges decide on bail, making community safety a priority. Youth offenders may no longer be kept in custody only as a last resort. There will also be new bail offences created, such as committing serious crimes while on bail. Changes are expected to take effect in about three months. A second bill will introduce a two-strike rule for anyone accused of serious offences while already on bail. The timing of these reforms has sparked debate, with O’Brien criticizing the government for panicking. Advocates against the legislation gathered at state parliament, expressing concerns about the impact on vulnerable individuals. Many argue that the new laws ignore past lessons from a coronial inquiry that highlighted the disproportionate jailing of marginalized groups. They urge the government to reconsider its approach.