Labor votes to keep machetes on Victorian streets

The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has slammed the Allan Labor Government for voting down legislation that would have immediately banned the public possession of machetes.

Labor refused to support the Liberals and Nationals’ Control of Weapons Amendment (Machetes) Bill 2025, which would have brought a ban into effect.

Instead, Labor has chosen to delay the ban until September, allowing machetes to remain legal on Victorian streets for another four months.

“This is a clear failure to prioritise community safety,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Machetes are being used in terrifying attacks and violent crimes, yet the government has again chosen delay over action.”

Since November 2023, the Liberals and Nationals have tried five times to reclassify machetes as prohibited weapons. Police, community leaders and anti-violence campaigners have been calling for action.

“Labor talks about community safety, but when given the chance to act, they voted it down,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Delaying this ban puts more people at risk. It is deeply disappointing and completely unacceptable.”

The decision comes at a time when crime is rising sharply across the region.

Recent statistics show alarming increases across the Euroa electorate:

• In the last year, total criminal incidents surged by 10.6 per cent in Benalla, 36.4 per cent in Mitchell Shire, and 36.9 per cent in Strathbogie Shire
• Recorded offences rose by 26.9 per cent in Benalla, 37.4 per cent in Mitchell, and 47.6 per cent in Strathbogie
• Family violence incidents also increased in all six local government areas of the electorate

“These numbers reflect real fear in our towns and communities,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Machetes have no place on our streets. The government must act now, not in four months.”

Residents concerned about rising crime are encouraged to contact Ms Cleeland’s office at annabelle.cleeland@parliament.vic.gov.au or 03 5762 1600.