Victoria Enforces Machete Sale Ban After Melbourne Mall Gang Violence

Following a violent machete-wielding gang brawl at a Melbourne shopping mall, Victoria's Premier Jacinta Allan announced an immediate ban on the sale of machetes, effective from midday Wednesday, to curb the threat of such weapons. The ban, which applies to all machetes with blades longer than 20 centimeters, excludes kitchen knives but does not offer exemptions for legitimate users like agricultural workers. Possession of machetes will be prohibited from September 1, with penalties including up to two years in prison and fines exceeding $30,700. A three-month amnesty period will allow residents to dispose of machetes without penalty. Police have already seized three of the four machetes used in the recent fight and plan to increase patrols around affected areas. Despite these measures, critics argue that the ban may not fully remove machetes from the streets, as weapons may remain hidden in homes or on individuals.