Social Justice

Victoria’s ban on machete sales “distracts attention away” from causes of crime

The Victorian government has made history today as the first Australian state to totally ban the sale of machetes. It comes after a stabbing incident in the Northland shopping centre over the weekend, in which seven people have since been charged with multiple offences. However, there are concerns about how the ban will be practically …

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Concern over new “Knee-jerk” bail laws in Northern Territory

In response to a tragic fatal stabbing in Darwin two weeks ago, the Norther Territory government has passed urgent bail laws to address youth crime in the territory. Justice Groups have raised concern over the speed of which these laws were passed through, citing a lack of proper oversight from various groups and communities, including …

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Homelessness crisis worsens with nationwide rough sleeping rising by 22%

A new collaborative report by UNSW’s City Futures Research Centre, University of Queensland and Homelessness Australia, shows a 22% increase in rough sleeping nationwide over the past three years. Australian Homelessness Monitor 2024 highlights that in New South Wales, rough sleeping has surged by 51%, with regional areas being the hardest hit. The deepening housing …

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Human Rights Day highlighting struggles for people with disabilities

Today marks Human Rights Day, a global observance aimed at raising awareness of human rights issues. However, for many people with disabilities, this day highlights ongoing challenges. Disability advocates are calling for stronger action and legislation to protect their rights. The recent Government response to the Disability Royal Commission has left many disappointed, with advocates …

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A look into ‘About Time’, Australia’s national prison newspaper

‘About Time’ is Australia’s national prison newspaper, providing information and a voice to inmates, and is distributed in almost every state in Australia. Erin Hee spoke with Rosie Heselev, managing director of About Time, and Daniel Vansetten, a coordinator of Level Up Advocacy about tackling controversial topics within prison and how the paper helps with …

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Offshore detention at high risk of developing PTSD

New research from the University of New South Wales highlights the stark consequences of offshore detention for asylum seekers and refugees. Data shows that people detained offshore have up to a 20 times higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder than those detained onshore or processed in the community. The study indicates that alternative methods …

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New research reveals vast majority of racist incidents go unreported

A new report by Victoria University in collaboration with tEthnic Communities’ Council of Victoria and the Islamic Council of Victoria reveals that the vast majority of racist incidents in Victoria go unreported, with only 16% of victims coming forward. The study identifies barriers such as hopelessness faced by people experiencing racism. The Wire spoke with …

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