Possessing a Machete in Victoria Could Result in Up to 2 Years in Jail or a $47,000 Fine
Victoria is poised to advocate for national restrictions as the ban on machetes takes effect on Sept. 1.
Victoria is on track to be the first state in Australia to prohibit machetes, in response to a series of violent incidents involving this weapon.
The decision comes after a notable home invasion in Black Rock, Melbourne, on March 4, where burglars armed with machetes stole two cars while residents were asleep.
The government announced plans to amend the Control of Weapons Act to categorize machetes as a prohibited weapon, starting Sept. 1, 2025.
Under the new regulation, individuals found with a machete could face up to two years in prison or a fine exceeding $47,000.
Premier Jacinta Allan criticized the negative impact of machetes on public safety, asserting, “Machetes are causing harm, so we will eliminate machetes. The locations where we gather should not become places of fear.”
Implementation of the Ban
The ban will specifically target machetes, defined as knives with blades longer than 20 centimetres. Industry consultations will be held to clarify the definition and ensure that essential tools like kitchen knives are exempt.
Exceptions will be made for individuals who use machetes for legitimate purposes like farming and hunting. They will need to seek approval, with additional discussions to streamline the process.
To facilitate the removal of machetes from public spaces, an amnesty will run from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, 2025. During this period, individuals can dispose of their machetes in secure bins at police stations without fear of legal action.
Premier Allan has also urged retailers to cease new orders for machetes immediately. The state government will communicate with the Federal Government to address machete imports and consider a nationwide ban.
New Police Measures Against Knife Crimes in Victoria
The machete ban is part of a broader effort to combat violent crime in Victoria. Alongside the ban, the government will expand police powers to address knife-related crimes.
The Terrorism (Community Protection) and Control of Weapons Amendment Bill, currently under review in Parliament, will be adjusted to allow police to establish designated search zones for up to six months, a significant increase from the current 12-hour limit.
This change will empower law enforcement to respond more effectively to intelligence regarding potential threats in public settings like shopping centres and transportation hubs.
In a related initiative, the Victorian government has introduced stricter bail regulations for repeat offenders found in possession of weapons, including machetes. Officials aim to reduce repeat offenses and enforce harsher penalties for individuals caught with forbidden weapons.
Addressing Escalating Crime Rates
The crackdown on machetes and knife-related crime is a response to the escalating crime rates in Victoria.
According to police data for the year ending September 2024, overall offenses increased by 13.4 percent to 578,762 incidents.
Key factors contributing to this increase include 68,042 car thefts, encompassing stolen plates and power tools. Retail theft has also surged, influenced by inflation and rising living costs.
These measures are regarded as essential steps in addressing public safety concerns and reducing violent crime in Victoria.
