On the Spot Fines Trial for Minor Offences
Source: Victoria. Office of the Attorney General. Media Release
"Police in Victoria will be able to issue infringement fines for seven offences including shop theft of up to $600, careless driving and offensive behaviour from 1 July, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said. “This trial, which will be in place for three years, will give police another tool to deal with common breaches of the law,” he said.“Issuing an infringement notice can be an effective deterrent because it provides a prompt, direct and certain response.” Guidelines will assist police in deciding whether issuing an infringement notice or other action, such as issuing a charge and going to court, will be appropriate. The trial will be carefully monitored to gauge the impact of the use of infringement notices for these offences on the courts, vulnerable members of the community, and the outcomes of trial offence matters."