Victoria’s Former Premier Warns of Crisis Amid Soaring Crime and Failing Economy
Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett has sounded the alarm, declaring the state is in a state of crisis due to out-of-control youth crime, a deteriorating economy, and poor governance.
Kennett, who led the state from 1992 to 1999, expressed concern about his personal safety and that of his grandchildren, citing the rising tide of violent incidents, including a recent home invasion in East Kew where a father of two was stabbed 11 times.
Crime and Economy in Freefall
The former Liberal leader attributed the state’s woes to a lack of effective governance, which he believes has led to a breakdown in law and order.
Kennett called for a “zero tolerance” approach to criminal justice, advocating for an end to magistrates’ and judges’ discretion to grant bail to individuals accused of violent crimes.
The state’s economy is also in a precarious state, with Victoria’s debt now the highest of any Australian state relative to its economy.
The government’s policy of encouraging people to work from home has been criticized for harming local businesses, with Melbourne traffic reportedly 2.6% less busy than before the COVID pandemic.
Political Infighting Worsens Crisis
The Opposition, led by the Liberal-National Coalition, has been plagued by internal conflict, which has eroded its credibility as a viable alternative government.
A recent poll showed support for the Labor government surging to 32%, while the Coalition’s primary vote remained stuck at 33%.
The Labor Premier, Jacinta Allan, has seen her popularity rise despite the state’s troubles, with her plan to make working from home two days a week a legal right gaining widespread support.