From 2026, children aged 14 and over who commit serious violent crimes in Victoria will face adult sentencing under a new plan announced by Premier Jacinta Allan and Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny.
The Adult Time for Violent Crime initiative targets offences such as aggravated home invasion, carjacking, intentional injury through gross violence, and armed robbery. The government says the move aims to ensure violent young offenders face stronger consequences and to better protect the community.
“Courts will treat these violent children like adults, so jail is more likely and sentences are longer,” Ms Allan said.
“There are too many victims, not enough consequences.”
Currently, only about one-third of children sentenced for serious violent crimes in the Children’s Court receive jail time. In adult courts, 97 per cent are jailed. The new laws will also allow life sentences for certain offences. Ms Kilkenny said adult courts put greater focus on victims and community safety, and the government will provide extra resources and judges to fast-track cases. In exceptional circumstances, children aged 14 may still be tried in the Children’s Court, such as for cognitive disabilities.
The plan forms part of Victoria’s wider Serious Consequences – Early Interventions approach, which includes tougher bail laws, a police overhaul, and a ban on machetes.
However, the opposition has criticised the announcement, saying it is largely symbolic. Liberal leader Brad Battin said there is currently no legislation to support the policy.
“Premier Jacinta Allan leads a government of announcements, not achievements. She is all froth and no beer,” Mr Battin said.
“This is an insult to every victim of crime waiting to see action to address the crisis. Victorians deserve better than a government more focused on good publicity than delivering good government.”
Mr Battin pointed to recent violent incidents, including two young boys murdered with machetes and a woman stabbed in the street, as evidence of the state’s ongoing crime crisis. He called for a “fresh start” with a government that backs words with actions.
The government says it is committed to legislating the initiative ahead of the 2026 start date, aiming to strike a balance between accountability for violent youth and community safety.
