Yesterday, the Victorian Liberal Nationals moved a house amendment to the Road Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019, to crack down on hoon and dangerous drivers.
This amendment will further broaden the circumstances under which Victoria Police can immediately suspend a driver’s licence or learners permit to include those charged with offences relating to:
· Organising or participating in a street race
· Deliberate driving causing skidding or loss of traction
· Learner or provisional licence holders speeding in excess of 30 km/h over the speed limit
· Learner licence holders driving without supervision
These amendments will bring Victoria’s legislation fully in line with New South Wales, where police have greater powers to immediately suspend the licences of hoon and dangerous drivers.
With Victoria’s road toll jumping an additional 55 lives last year and independent Victorian Crime Statistic Agency data showing a 166% increase in dangerous driving offences under Daniel Andrews - the need for these strengthened laws could not be clearer.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Police & Community Safety, David Southwick:
“The Victorian Liberal Nationals take a zero-tolerance approach to hoon and dangerous driving and this amendment is about getting these offenders off the road immediately.”
“Victorians understand there are no second chances when it comes to road safety and these new laws are critical to keeping the community safe.
“Andrews can’t afford to miss this opportunity to get Victoria’s anti-hoon laws right and must support these important amendments.”