Legislation to combat criminal organizations and bikie gangs in Victoria has been introduced into the state’s parliament. The proposed Criminal Organisations Control Amendment Bill aims to prevent members of these groups from entering government worksites. In addition, the bill seeks to crack down on the public display of club insignia, such as badges, patches, and clothing. Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes emphasized that the police would closely monitor the situation once the laws come into effect.
Symes pointed out that many members of outlaw motorcycle gangs openly flaunt their affiliation, making it easier for the police to identify them. The bill will enable law enforcement to charge individuals who are current members of proscribed criminal organizations if they enter a Victorian worksite. Moreover, the legislation includes provisions that would prevent organized crime members from gathering, with the possibility of facing up to three years in prison.
To further deter organized crime, individuals involved in such activities may be denied access to firearms and specific amounts of cash. They may also be blocked from leaving the state. Symes stressed that the new rules aim to close the existing loopholes and prevent people from coming together to discuss criminal activities.
According to Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines, the legislation will grant Victoria Police the most contemporary powers in the nation to tackle organized crime. However, State Opposition Leader John Pesutto expressed concerns about the laws, arguing that they fail to address the root issues. Pesutto cited parliamentary reports that showed little use of warnings or official cautions. Carbines, on the other hand, assured that the laws would be enforced as needed.
Carbines emphasized that organized crime groups and bikie gangs are on notice, stating that intimidation will not be tolerated by Victoria Police. The government believes that these laws will help eliminate the influence of organized crime gangs on worksites. Attorney-General Symes also highlighted the complementary efforts of the federal government in eradicating the corrupt culture in the construction industry.
The introduction of this bill follows the controversy surrounding the Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Energy Union (CFMEU), which was placed into administration due to alleged connections to crime and bikie gangs. The government aims to address these issues and ensure the safety of Victorians by implementing stricter regulations and granting enhanced powers to law enforcement agencies.
