Today’s Extinction Rebellion protest in the Melbourne CBD again highlights the economic and community safety consequences of Daniel Andrews’ decision to strip move-on laws from Victoria Police.
In 2015, one of Daniel Andrews’ first acts as Premier was to repeal Victoria’s move-on laws, leaving Victoria Police hamstrung in their ability to break-up dangerous protests and manage deliberately disruptive individuals.
In November 2019, the Victorian Liberal Nationals sought to re-introduce Victoria’s move-on laws which would’ve returned these important powers to frontline Victoria Police officers, but were blocked by the Andrews Labor Government.
Victoria’s recovery must not be held ransom by protesters and with further events planned over coming weeks, Daniel Andrews must act to give frontline officers the powers they need to keep our city moving.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, David Southwick:
“With countless CBD business struggling to get back on track, the last thing we need is disorganised and dangerous protests which try to shut down the city at all costs.
“Everyone has the right to protest but not to disrupt and endanger others and Daniel Andrews has left frontline officers with one hand tied behind their backs.
“Victoria’s COVID-19 recovery must not be derailed by ongoing protests and CBD lockdowns and Daniel Andrews must urgently back the introduction of the Liberal Nationals’ move-on laws.”
