Monday, 30 January 2023
The Victorian Liberals and Nationals today acknowledge the Coroners Court’s findings into the tragic passing of Veronica Nelson.
The coronial findings note systemic as well as individual failings that contributed to Ms Nelson’s death, including a lack of resourcing by the Andrews Labor Government.
Under the Andrews Labor Government, more than 4 in 10 prisoners are held on remand awaiting trial while Victorian court backlogs are the worst in the nation.
The Victorian Liberals and Nationals are committed to effective bail laws that protect the safety of the community whilst giving every opportunity to those in the criminal justice system to get on the right path.
We will closely review these recommendations and work constructively on any legislative changes proposed to achieve a more effective, fairer justice system for all Victorians that delivers a safer community.
In so doing, the tragedy of the Bourke Street attack in 2017 which was the catalyst for amending the Bail Act in the interests of community safety, must not be forgotten.