In early October 2020, the Victorian Government put to vote the Omnibus Bill, containing changes to the Health & Wellbeing Act. The over-reach of power being sought was of grave to concern by many parties, including the Victorian Bar Association. For example, The Bill contained provisions that allow authorised officers to detain Victorians & keep them detained without a trial indefinitely even if they do not have COVID-19.
The Bill ended up being passed, but in a diluted form (without the above provision). This was the result of the significant pushback by industry leaders & the public. Here are a summary of links to read more & never forget what Dan Andrews Victorian Government were trying to introduce.
Matt Wong – PreEmptive Detention
AdvocateMe Lawyers – Omnibus Bill
HumanRights Victoria – Omnibus Bill
Victorian Bar – Omnibus Bill
Roll Back of Powers – The Age
