Victoria's bail laws may worsen prison overcrowding issues

Victoria has introduced strict new bail laws aimed at reducing violent crime, making it harder for offenders to be released. This change follows a significant rise in youth crime and violent incidents, prompting concerns about prison overcrowding. Authorities worry that the new laws could lead to mistakes in managing violent offenders due to limited resources. Prisons are already struggling with increased populations and staffing shortages, raising questions about their ability to handle the expected influx of new inmates. The closure of Port Phillip Prison later this year adds to the challenges. Critics argue that the government has not adequately prepared for the impact of these new laws on the correctional system.