Victoria says risk of public ‘perception’ of youth crime led to decision to delay bail reforms

Attorney general Jaclyn Symes says reforms to create the presumption of bail for children will instead be part of a bill to be introduced in 2024. Photograph: Daniel Pockett/AAP

Victoria’s attorney general, Jaclyn Symes, says public perceptions of a “youth crime crisis” influenced her decision to delay laws that would make it easier for children to receive bail.

Symes has confirmed she will move amendments on Thursday to have the presumption of bail for children removed from the bail amendment bill, and instead have it become part of a future youth justice bill.