Thursday, 6 March 2025

 Brad BATTIN (Berwick – Leader of the Opposition) (14:01): My question is to the Premier. Recently Bendigo woman Priya Naik was upstairs asleep with her two children when four people broke in. Priya said:

When is this going to stop? How serious does it need to [be] before we change the laws?

How many more of the Premier’s constituents need to become victims of serious crime before the Premier changes the law?

 Jacinta ALLAN (Bendigo East – Premier) (14:02): In acknowledging the Leader of the Opposition’s question, at the outset can I convey that my thoughts are with Priya. I was able to speak to Priya following the awful incident that was referred to. I had a conversation with her in the days after that awful event, and we spoke about how no-one’s home should be the scene of a crime like this. She shared with me her experience and that of her family. We also spoke about the work of Victoria Police. We also spoke about the need, yes, to change the laws. I shared with Priya, as I have shared with the house and the public more broadly, that that is my focus, that the work of the Attorney and the police minister is to recognise that the law has to be changed, that we are listening to victims of crime like Priya and her family and that we are acting – and we will act – to strengthen the law.

 Brad BATTIN (Berwick – Leader of the Opposition) (14:03): Residents of a Bendigo street terrorised by break-ins and car thefts say they sleep with golf clubs and baseball bats in fear their homes will be targeted again. The Premier told this house yesterday:

We absolutely do need to do more. It is clear that the current laws need to be strengthened …

When will the Premier do so?

 Jacinta ALLAN (Bendigo East – Premier) (14:04): I say this in answering the Leader of the Opposition’s question: my thoughts are with victims of crime, whether they be in Bendigo, in Brighton, in Berwick, in Broadmeadows or in any corner of this state. What we are seeing with this repeat pattern of behaviour is unacceptable. My government has identified it as unacceptable. It is why we made changes last year that those opposite opposed – changes that are making a difference.

Members interjecting.

The SPEAKER: Order! I will not tolerate interjections. Members will be removed without warning.

Bridget Vallence: On a point of order, Speaker, the Premier is debating the question. It is about when the laws be changed now.

The SPEAKER: I ask the Premier to come back to the question.

Jacinta ALLAN: I have been clear that our laws need to be changed, and we will change them. Work is happening with urgency right now, and we will have more to say very soon.

Members interjecting.

The SPEAKER: Member for Bulleen! Just because it is your birthday does not mean you will not be removed from the chamber.