Labor Will Implement 'Jack's Law' Stop and Search Powers
Victorians are absolutely appalled by knife crime.
Police must have more powers to get these knives off our streets.
That’s why a re-elected Carroll Labor Government will implement Jack’s Law – Stop and Search.
Jack’s Law – Stop and Search gives police the power to use a handheld metal detector ‘wand’ to search for knives.
Anywhere in public, any time of the day.
It will be modelled off laws introduced by the Queensland Labor Government that have saved lives.
What is Jack’s Law – Stop and Search and why do we need it
Victoria already uses handheld metal detectors in designated search areas.
But designated areas aren’t enough, because people are concerned about knife crime everywhere.
Jack’s Law extends these powers to public places across the state, without police having to declare a designated search area – a process which has limits, can take time, and expires after a set period.
Under Labor’s plan:
• Jack’s Law – Stop and Search will be in place statewide by early 2027
• We will deliver 1,200 additional handheld metal detectors for police
These designated area laws are in jeopardy following a recent legal challenge in the Federal Court.
That’s why we’ll work with experts so the new legislation responds to issues raised by the courts, and is watertight.
Queensland, NSW and other states have introduced Jack’s Law, and Queensland shows what the powers can do.
Since July 2025, Queensland police have taken more than 1,400 weapons off the streets.
Jack’s Law is named after 17-year-old Jack Beasley who was fatally stabbed while out with mates in Surfers Paradise.
Since losing their son, Jack’s parents Brett and Belinda have fought for stronger laws to prevent other families from suffering the same heartbreak.
Labor is listening to Brett and Belinda, just like we’re listening to victims and communities across our own state.
We’re delivering a new direction on fighting crime, with:
• Jack’s Law – Stop and Search to find knives anywhere, anytime
• A real plan to recruit 1,500 more police with a new academy in Melbourne’s West
• More reservists to get police stations opening longer
Labor’s plan is more police, more powers.
The Liberals have their own plan: more judges, more cuts.
Quotes attributable to Premier Ben Carroll
“My priority is community safety – and stop and search powers for knives is the new direction I’m delivering.”
“I stand with parents like Brett and Belinda, just like I stand with all Victorians who have had their lives destroyed by violence.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Paul Edbrooke
“Stop and search powers for deadly blades, anywhere, any time – to get these knives off our streets.”
“Labor’s plan is more police and more powers. The Liberals’ plan is more cuts.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall
“People here want to feel safe in public. Jack’s Law helps police find knives before somebody gets hurt.”
