Statement From The Minister For Police

I have today met the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police to discuss a range of issues including riotous behaviour by far right and far left groups in Coburg on Saturday.

What's clear from that discussion is that reinstating broad anti-protest and anti-worker "Move On" laws is not the most effective response to such behaviour.

Following discussions with Victoria Police, the Government will examine:

• Laws against the wearing of face coverings at protests
• Laws which would allow police to identify individuals or groups of individuals whose intent is violence rather than a genuine desire to protest or demonstrate
• Providing police with the powers to intervene to prevent individuals or groups with violent intent entering a designated area or areas
• A requirement on local government to consult with Victoria Police prior to providing permits for certain types of protests
• Stronger penalties against those who commit violent acts at public events

The Government will continue working with Victoria Police to deliver these new powers.