Victoria’s sentencing laws are set for a major overhaul, with Premier Jacinta Allan committing to a full review and rewrite of the state’s decades-old legal framework.
The Victorian Budget 2026/27 allocates nearly $3 million for an independent review of the Sentencing Act 1991, marking the first comprehensive reassessment of the legislation since it was introduced more than three decades ago.
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said the review would examine whether current sentencing laws still align with community expectations and modern legal challenges. “Sentencing absolutely needs to reflect community expectations – but the Act hasn’t been reviewed with that aim in mind since 1991.”
“It’s no wonder many Victorians think sentencing doesn’t reflect our modern challenges.”
The review will be led by the Sentencing Advisory Council, which will consult widely with legal experts, stakeholders and the public. It will consider how sentencing can better support victims, ensure their voices are heard, and reflect contemporary community standards.
The government has pledged to rewrite the Act following the review’s findings, signalling a significant shift in how courts approach sentencing across Victoria.
As part of the process, the council will also examine specific issues currently affecting Victorians, including sentencing outcomes in cases involving so-called “Good Samaritan” incidents — where individuals are harmed while trying to intervene and stop violence.
The move comes amid broader scrutiny of community safety and justice settings, with the government also seeking advice from the Victorian Law Reform Commission on strengthening protections for emergency workers following a recent attack on a paramedic.
While the reviews are aimed at long-term reform, the government said it remains prepared to introduce urgent legislative changes if needed.
Minister Kilkenny said the overhaul would be shaped by expert advice and community input.
“We’ll rewrite the Act following the advice from experts, police and the public, because under Labor, community safety comes first.”
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