The Tasmanian Government's Sentencing Amendment (Presumptive Sentencing for Assaults on Frontline Workers) Bill 2024 has passed the House of Assembly.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said Tasmania's frontline workers will soon be better protected.
"We have been clear, that serious assaults on our frontline workers will absolutely not be tolerated," the Attorney-General said.
"Today, our legislation has passed the House of Assembly, meaning Tasmania's frontline workers are soon to be better protected.
"No frontline worker should suffer abuse or assaults in their workplace, and I am proud that we have set in train stronger measures to better protect them.
"Our Government is the strongest supporter of our frontline workers, and it is disappointing that Labor has been so wishy-washy on this matter.
"We took this commitment to the election as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future and have made it a priority to deliver within our first 100 days of government."
The Sentencing Amendment (Presumptive Sentencing for Assaults on Frontline Workers) Bill 2024 has amended the Sentencing Act 1997 to provide for a presumption of minimum sentencing in relation to offences causing serious bodily harm to certain frontline workers.
This list of frontline workers includes:
* Child safety officers;
* Correctional services officers;
* Emergency services officers, like firefighters;
* Health and safety officers;
* Public officers;
* Retail or hospitality workers;
* Security officers, like those at licensed venues; and
* Transport workers.
