New Weapons Laws

The Victorian Government has introduced new laws to target knife crime and make people safer. New laws soon to be in force mean you can be searched for knives in a public place anywhere anytime, with and without notice. Carrying a knife for self defence is against the law.

If you are 16 and over and get caught carrying a controlled weapon such as a knife, you face an on the spot fine of $1,000, or you may have to go to court and face a fine of over $14,000 or one year imprisonment.

This fine is doubled if you are inside or within 20 metres of a pub, club or bar. If you are under 16 and get caught carrying a controlled weapon such as a knife, you will go to court.

If you are under 18 you are no longer able to buy any type of knife, including kitchen knives or knives for school or work. To do so is against the law and you will face a $234 on the spot fine, or you could face court and a fine of over $1,400. Anyone who knowingly sells a knife or other controlled weapon to a minor faces a fine of over $2,300.

Young people and the new laws

Carrying a knife does not make you safer. It makes you more unsafe.

Under the law, giving a reason like ‚” was carrying it for self defence, or because I felt unsafe‚” is not acceptable.

You may know someone who carries a knife or other weapon for self defence or because it makes them feel tough or they want to fit in. Maybe they feel unsafe from bullying or threats.

Making a decision to a carry a knife or weapon will get you into all sorts of trouble. You could be hurt or you could seriously hurt someone else.

How to be street safe:

• Never take a knife or weapon with you for your own safety, or to protect your friends.
• When leaving home tell someone where you are going, and, when you think you will be back.
• Make sure you take your mobile with you and make sure that it is charged.
• Avoid walking alone at night or taking shortcuts in dark and isolated areas.
• Walk on the footpath facing oncoming traffic, so people passing by can see you.
• If you feel unsafe, cross the road, find a telephone, or enter a store or place of business even if you have just left it.
• When using a public telephone, stand with your back to the phone after dialing so you can see what is around you.
• Carry your purse or handbag close to your body. Don’t leave valuables like your mobile phone, handbag or wallet unattended, even for a moment.
• Travel with other people whenever you can, and, if you feel unsafe or in danger call 000. Even if you don’t have any phone credit, you can always get through to 000.

If someone picks an argument or fight, walk away.

Not only is it what most people do, it is also the tougher thing to do.

Walking away is actually the best thing to do.

You will be safe from serious harm and won’t seriously harm someone else. If you are confronted by someone with a knife or weapon, the safest thing to do is back away and walk as fast as you can and seek help. Don’t hesitate, call Triple 000 if you feel in danger or you feel a situation is getting or has gotten out of hand.

If a fight starts don’t watch or egg others on.

A fight with cheering bystanders is generally more dangerous with more serious injuries and consequences. Don’t argue with someone holding a knife and don’t try to take it from them.

Make the decision to never carry a knife or other weapon. It keeps you safer and you won’t do something you will regret.

You can also lead by example and your peers may also start choosing not to carry a knife. Remember that younger people, including younger brothers and sisters, will be looking up to you, so if you lead by example you will also be stopping them from making the mistake to carry a knife or weapon.

What if you feel in danger?

If someone has threatened you or your friends, don’t take matters into your own hands. There are other ways to be safe. Like backing away and calling the police on 000.

What else can I do?

Never take a knife or weapon with you for your own safety. It just puts you at a greater risk.

If you have a mate that carries a knife, talk to them about the reasons why they shouldn’t. It’s really important you talk to an adult you trust about your fears, or you call the police on 000 if you feel threatened. Take precautions for your and others safety by not being alone. Try to stay in groups where possible.

If you do see trouble starting, feel afraid or you feel like you need help it does not matter whether it’s something you have seen or are witnessing, call the police on 000. They are there to help.

It is important that you speak to someone ‚- teachers, parents, counsellors or police ‚- if you, in any way, feel unsafe, threatened, uncomfortable, harassed or intimidated by someone.