Deputy Premier Ben Carroll has renewed his call for a “zero tolerance” approach to youth crime in Victoria, as public concern mounts following the release on bail of a 19-year-old accused of a machete attack outside Luna Park.
Speaking on Thursday, Carroll said the Allan Government was examining stronger measures to curb violent youth offending, though sentencing reform had not yet been formally discussed. The Deputy Premier stressed the need for “tougher consequences” and “sentencing that works,” while also acknowledging the importance of rehabilitation.
“We need to have a zero tolerance approach to violent crime, in particular knife crime,” Carroll told 3AW radio. “Sentencing must allow real rehabilitation — giving young offenders the time and structure to rebuild, but also ensuring accountability.”
The comments came after Abbas Mazrawi, 19, and two co-accused brothers, Mohamed and Abdurahman Kahn, were granted bail despite facing charges over a machete assault in St Kilda. Police strongly opposed the decision, warning it undermined community confidence. Magistrate Pauline Spencer admitted such public acts of violence made Victorians “scared to go out.”
Carroll, while avoiding direct criticism of the judiciary, said the government must ensure that laws and court outcomes reflect community expectations. “As legislators, and I think this goes for the judiciary as well, we must be mindful that our laws meet the expectations of the community,” he said.
The Labor caucus remains divided on how best to address the issue. Some MPs advocate for harsher youth sentencing, arguing that it provides structure, accountability, and opportunities for reform. Others insist that keeping young offenders out of detention prevents them from becoming entrenched in the criminal system.
Carroll cited New York and Glasgow as international models, both of which have combined strict enforcement with rehabilitation and early intervention programs. In Glasgow, authorities focus on diversion and reintegration, while New York has invested more than $500 million in youth support, education, and employment pathways to prevent reoffending.
“Young Victorians will be given two opportunities,” Carroll concluded. “They can choose a life of purpose, or they can face swift justice and real consequences. What I can guarantee is that no consequences lead to more crime. Victims must always be front and centre.”
As youth violence and knife-related incidents rise across Melbourne, the Allan Government is under increasing pressure to balance compassion and accountability — ensuring justice for victims while preventing the next generation from falling deeper into crime.
