The Victorian government is introducing life jail terms for individuals who recruit children to commit serious crimes, targeting organized crime syndicates that use minors for firebombings and home invasions. The new legislation, to be introduced into state parliament, increases the maximum penalty from 15 years to life imprisonment for recruiting a child to commit a serious offense.
Premier Jacinta Allan stated, 'Organised crime bosses who recruit kids to torch venues and invade homes deserve no sympathy.' The government reports that 64 charges of recruiting a child to carry out a crime have already been laid. Police have made 65 arrests and laid 370 charges as part of Operation Eclipse, which targets syndicates behind recent firebombings.
Crime syndicates are using encrypted digital platforms to recruit vulnerable teenagers, including those with intellectual disabilities and low IQ. Statistics show youth offenders are responsible for more than half of all home invasions and carjackings in the state.
The government is also tightening firearms laws, restricting licences to Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens who are permanent residents, and non-citizens needing firearms for work. Background checks will be strengthened, and harsher penalties for firearms trafficking include up to 15 years in jail. The chief commissioner will have power to temporarily reclassify firearms to respond to new technology.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines said, 'We're taking quick action to stop the wrong people getting their hands on a single gun.' The changes follow a review by former Victoria Police chief commissioner Ken Lay.
