Life terms introduced for Victorian gangs who recruit children

The Victorian government is set to introduce life jail terms for individuals who recruit children to commit serious crimes, marking a significant escalation in penalties against organized crime.

This move directly addresses concerns over crime syndicates exploiting vulnerable teenagers, including those with intellectual disabilities or no prior criminal history, often using encrypted digital platforms for recruitment. These youth are reportedly being used for dangerous activities such as firebombings of hospitality venues and home invasions. Statistics indicate that youth offenders are responsible for over half of all home invasions and carjackings in the state.

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Organised crime bosses who recruit kids to torch venues and invade homes deserve no sympathy.

The new legislation will introduce a specific offense of recruiting a child to commit a serious crime. The maximum penalty will be increased from the current 10 to 15 years to life imprisonment. Premier Jacinta Allan stated, "Organised crime bosses who recruit kids to torch venues and invade homes deserve no sympathy." The government highlighted that 64 charges related to recruiting a child for a crime have already been laid.

In parallel, the government is strengthening Victoria's firearms laws. New legislation will restrict firearm licenses to Australian citizens, permanent resident New Zealand citizens, and non-citizens requiring firearms for work. Background checks for license applicants will also be enhanced. Additionally, harsher penalties, including up to 15 years in jail, are being introduced for firearm trafficking.

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These laws send a clear message, those who recruit children to commit crime will face the full force of the law.