Thursday, Premier Jacinta Allan declared Victoria the first Australian state to outlaw machetes in a bid to reduce increasing knife-related offenses. The measure is meant to answer worries about public safety since Melbourne hospitals have seen a rise in stabbing casualties in the last years.
Under the new statute, wide machete blades—usually used in agriculture—would be considered a “prohibited weapon.” Those found with machetes without an exemption could be imprisoned for up to two years or fined AUD 45,000 (roughly USD 30,000).
Australia’s first machete ban is declared by Premier Jacinta Allan.
‘Premier Allan stressed that knife crime is being fiercely battled by the government.
“Flatly no need for machetes … anywhere,” she penned in a X (previously Twitter) post. “That’s why I have declared the first machete prohibition in Australia right here in Victoria.”
Although the Victorian State hasn’t publish specific knife crime data, the increase in hospitalizations related to stabbing has alarmed government. The prohibition is one component of a more general plan aimed at improving public safety and lowering violent events.
Restrictions on machetes across Australia and worldwide comparisons.
Though most Australian states currently restrict in some way the sale and ownership of machetes, Victoria is the first to issue a total prohibition.
Bladed weapons have been similarly restricted in other nations worldwide. Recently, the United Kingdom implemented tougher laws that make it harder for minors to buy knives on the internet.
More severe policies to enhance public safety
The Victorian government’s choice speaks to increasing fears about knife violence. Banning machetes is thought by government officials to improve community safety by stopping violent crimes.
The law has exceptions for people using machetes for proper reasons including farming or industrial work, but individuals breaking the rules will be subject to harsh penalties.
Victoria’s ban establishes a precedent in Australia and strengthens its dedication toward addressing weapon-related crimes and lowering violent crime across the state.
