The decision today from the Andrews Labor Government to vote down proposed amendments to the Justice Legislation Amendment (Serious Offenders and Other Matters) Bill 2019, is yet another example of Daniel Andrews turning his back on victims of crime.
Earlier this week, the Victorian Liberal Nationals moved two amendments to this Bill, which would have;
· Created a new offence for a prisoner to directly communicate or attempt to communicate via letter or parcel, with a victim, without the prior consent of the victim, punishable by up to 6 months imprisonment.
· Ensured a legislative requirement that at least one of the members of the Adult Parole Board is a person representing the interest of victims.
Victims deserve to be at the centre of the criminal justice system and these changes would have strengthened protections for and the representation of, those most affected by crime.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Corrections, David Southwick:
“Today, Daniel Andrews and Labor have walked away from a stronger, fairer justice system for victims of crime.”
“These pragmatic changes would have increased victim protection and representation in the criminal justice system.”
“The Liberal Nationals will always pursue a stronger criminal justice system where victims, not offenders, come first.”
“Victims of crime have every right to feel let down today by the Andrews Labor Government.”