Labor will completely review – and rewrite – Victoria’s sentencing laws so they are clearer, more consistent and more in line with community expectations.
The Sentencing Act is the foundation of how courts work but it has never had a comprehensive review since 1991.
That’s why the Victorian Budget 2026/27 invests nearly $3 million into an independent Sentencing Act review.
As part of this review, the Sentencing Advisory Council will provide advice on:
- Whether the Act still meets community expectations
- How sentencing can better support victims and ensure their voices are heard
- How the Act can better reflect and promote what Victorians expect in the 21st century
Both experts and the public will be able to provide feedback throughout the review.
Following the review, the Government commits to rewriting the Act.
Government will also ask the Sentencing Advisory Council to consider current sentencing issues affecting Victorians.
That includes sentencing outcomes for offences against people who are trying to intervene to stop violence – often known as Good Samaritan laws.
Because people are rightly appalled by incidents where someone is attacked for protecting their fellow Victorian.
Separately – as announced last week following a shocking attack on a paramedic – the Government will get advice from the Victorian Law Reform Commission on how to strengthen Victoria’s emergency worker harm laws.
While these Reviews will set the legislative pathway forward for the long-term, we remain willing and able to act quickly should any urgent reforms be necessary.