The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has condemned Premier Jacinta Allan for refusing to take responsibility for Victoria’s weak bail laws during Question Time in Parliament this week.
Ms Benham raised two shocking cases in Mildura, where repeat young offenders accused of violent crimes were granted bail despite strong police warnings and magistrates acknowledging the high risk of reoffending.
“In one case, a 14-year-old girl who had already been cautioned by police 14 times was granted bail after a home invasion, with the magistrate admitting police concerns that she would offend again were ‘entirely well-founded’,” Ms Benham said.
“In another case, a young boy accused of stealing a car in a home invasion and driving it at 140 kilometres an hour was also bailed, despite police warning of the real risk he may end up killing someone. The magistrate described the situation as a ‘tragedy waiting to happen’ and admitted there were no bail conditions that could adequately protect the community.”
Ms Benham pressed the Premier on how community safety was being prioritised in these cases, given Labor’s repeated claims that its bail reforms ensure “community safety comes first.”
“How is the Allan Labor Government putting community safety first when repeat offenders are being released straight back onto our streets? This is another deeply concerning example of the outcome of weakened bail laws and Labor being soft on crime,” Ms Benham said.
“Instead of taking responsibility, the Premier ducked, weaved and shifted blame back to the courts. This government has failed to protect Victorians, neglected regional communities, and shown a shocking disregard for the safety of every Victorian.
“Communities deserve a government that takes crime seriously, not one that passes the buck when people’s safety is on the line. The Liberals and Nationals Government will always put community safety first.
“Labor can’t manage our crime crisis and Victorians are paying the price.”
Watch the full Question Time exchange here: Question Time – Premier – 11th September 2025
