The Victorian Government has introduced a new bill to Parliament that would see criminals who “post and boast” face extra jail time.
The bill targets those who post content “bragging about their involvement in serious crimes”.
Here’s what you need to know.
Bill
The Victorian Government said its bill responds to a “dangerous trend among young people chasing clout” on social media about “their heinous crimes which encourages offending, re-traumatises victims and deeply disturbs the community.”
Under the bill, people found guilty of offences including burglary and car theft, who have posted their criminal activities online, would face up to two years jail time in addition to any existing penalties.
The new penalties will not apply to third parties of a crime, such as journalists and bystanders, who are “not involved in offending”.
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Victorian Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said: “These laws… send a clear message to offenders — crime isn’t content… and it won’t be tolerated.”
The Opposition called the announcement “another example of [the Government’s] failure to keep Victorians safe… Even this belated response won’t come into effect for months.”
Shadow Attorney-General Michael O’Brien said: “Too many Victorians who are victims of serious offending have had insult added to injury by perpetrators bragging about their crimes online.”
Australia
Similar laws are already in effect around Australia, including Qld, the NT, SA, and NSW. Each jurisdiction carries a penalty of up to two years. These “post and boast” laws were already introduced and are expected to pass in SA.
WA Premier Roger Cook has also announced plans to introduce a ‘post and boast’ law. In 2024, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff committed to making “posting and boasting” an aggravating factor in sentencing.
