Articles

In a significant move to combat rising youth violence and gang-related crime, the Victorian Government has enacted Australia’s first-ever machete ban. This legislation aims to enhance public safety and curb the misuse of large knives in violent incidents. Key Provisions of the Machete Ban 1. Classification as Prohibited Weapons Effective from September 1, 2025, machetes…

Understanding Breathalyzer Tests for Minors Australian law grants police officers the authority to require drivers, including minors, to submit to a breathalyzer test if there is suspicion of drink driving or during random roadside checks. This power extends to anyone operating a vehicle—whether on a learner, provisional, or full license. The process is not discretionary;…

If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence in Victoria and it’s your first time before the courts, you may be eligible for what’s known as the Diversion Program. This program provides an opportunity to resolve a matter without a criminal conviction, helping individuals avoid the long-term consequences of a criminal record. At Elbob &…

Challenging calibration certificates for breathalyzer devices in Australian courts Breathalyzer devices are an essential tool used by law enforcement in Australia to measure a driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) levels during roadside tests. These devices provide a quick way to assess whether a driver is sober or not, helping to enforce strict road safety measures….

What is the Offence of Driving While Suspended or Disqualified? Driving while your licence is suspended or disqualified is a serious offence under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic). If caught, you could face substantial fines, an extended disqualification period, and even imprisonment. What’s the Difference Between Suspension and Disqualification? Regardless of how your licence…

What is the Offence of Refusing a Breath or Drug Test? In Victoria, refusing to undergo a breath test, saliva test, or blood test when lawfully requested by police is a serious offence under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic). The law imposes strict penalties for refusal, often harsher than those for drink or drug…

What is the Offence of Hoon Driving or Reckless Driving? In Victoria, hoon driving and reckless driving are serious traffic offences under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic). These offences involve driving in a dangerous, careless, or irresponsible manner that puts lives and property at risk. You can be charged with hoon or reckless driving…

What is the Offence of Failing to Stop for Police? Failing to stop when directed by police, commonly known as evading police, is a serious criminal offence in Victoria under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic). This offence applies when a driver deliberately ignores a direction from police to pull over and continues driving. Examples…

What is the Offence of Excessive Speeding? Excessive speeding is a serious traffic offence in Victoria under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic). Unlike minor speeding offences, which result in fines and demerit points, excessive speeding can lead to immediate licence suspension and a court summons. You can be charged with excessive speeding if you…

What is the Offence of Drug Driving? Drug driving is a serious traffic offence in Victoria and carries severe legal consequences. Under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic), it is an offence to: Police conduct saliva, blood, or impairment tests to detect the presence of illicit substances such as cannabis, methamphetamine, and MDMA. Prescription drugs…