Victoria’s parliament has passed new legislation increasing penalties for violent crimes committed by minors.
The new law allows juveniles to be tried in adult court with maximum penalties rising from 25 years to life imprisonment.
Premier Jacinta Allen emphasises the need for consequences while acknowledging that effective crime prevention is crucial.
The new laws have faced backlash, with critics arguing that maximum sentences may not be applied consistently, and some question the wisdom of imposing life sentences on 14-year-olds.
