MEDIA RELEASE 12 November 2025
Shadow Attorney-General and Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace MP, has slammed the Allan Labor Government’s so-called “Adult Time for Violent Crime” announcement as too little, too late, and a weak imitation of the successful Queensland model.
“Victorians deserve real action to combat violent youth offending, not a Temu version of Queensland’s proven laws,” Mr Wallace said.
“While Queensland’s ‘Adult Crime, Adult Time’ reforms cover 33 serious offences, Labor’s Victorian proposal covers only five. This is yet another headline grab from a government that’s big on talk and poor on delivery.”
Under the Allan Government’s plan, children aged 14 and above who commit violent crimes such as aggravated home invasion or aggravated carjacking could face adult sentences of up to life imprisonment. The government says it will introduce the legislation later this year, with harsher penalties to take effect in 2026.
Mr Wallace said the announcement was typical of a Victorian Labor Government that repeatedly over-promises and under-delivers on community safety.
“Whether it’s machete or mask laws, or now this half-baked youth crime crackdown, Victorians have heard it all before. The pattern is always the same, big promises and zero delivery,” he continued.
“Jacinta Allan’s record on law and order is one of rhetoric over results. The people of Victoria are crying out for genuine leadership on crime, not another press conference.”
As Victorian Liberal Shadow Attorney-General, James Newbury MP has said, “Labor is weak on crime.”
Mr Wallace added that Labor’s policy failures across multiple states had left communities more vulnerable to repeat offending and youth gang violence.
“The Coalition believes in stronger deterrence, tougher sentencing for violent repeat offenders, and practical support for police on the ground,” he said. “Labor’s approach is to make an announcement and hope the headlines do the heavy lifting.”
“The facts are clear, Queensland’s reforms are tough, comprehensive and already working. Victoria’s copycat effort doesn’t come close.”
Only a Coalition Government will back our police, strengthen our laws and restore safety and security to the Australian Community.
[ENDS]
Media Contact: Brendan West – 0402 556 646 – Brendan.west@aph.gov.au
