Vic Public Drunkenness law decriminalised

Image:Unsplash; Tim Hüfner

To the delight of the Indigenous Community, the detriment of hospital workers and police and the disapproval of the Opposition Government, public drunkenness is no longer a criminal offence in Victoria.

The long awaited change leaves only Queensland where it is still possible to be sent directly to jail if you are deemed intoxicated.

However, Victoria’s Shadow Minster for Crime Prevention, Brad Battin strongly believes that this change could do more good than bad. A health workforce under-prepared to deal with drunk people is one that puts the individual and others at risk.

Produced By: Marc De Paoli

Featured In Story: Victoria’s Shadow Minister for Crime Prevention and Youth Justice; Brad Battin

First aired on The Wire, Monday 22 February 2021