11 September 2026
The Victorian Parliament has voted to abolish criminal punishment for people who are doing it tough and need to beg to support themselves. Until now, Victoria was the only state or territory that still punished people for begging.
This change in the law represents a monumental win for the communities we serve. When you’re experiencing homelessness or on the brink of destitution, begging can be a lifeline.
With the passing of an amendment to the Justice Legislation Amendment (Family Violence, Coercive Control, Good Character, Risk Assessment and Other Matters) Bill 2026, begging is now decriminalised in Victoria.
Before, someone charged with the crime of begging could face fines or up to 12 months in prison.
Now, a mother experiencing family violence does not have to worry about getting a criminal charge if she’s forced out of home to survive. Young people won’t get swept up in the criminal justice system because their support system failed them.
From today, Victorians will no longer be punished for asking for help when they need it most.
“Fitzroy Legal Service has a long history of calling for the decriminalisation of begging,” says Hamish McLachlan, CEO of Fitzroy Legal Service. “We’ve seen how treating begging as a crime continues cycles of poverty, makes existing disadvantage worse, and does not actually reduce begging.”
“We commend the Victorian Parliament for enacting laws rooted in safety, dignity, and community voice.”
Moments like these are the work of many hands, minds and hearts. We acknowledge the clients, advocates, lawmakers, and organisers whose collective effort brought us to this milestone.
Fitzroy Legal Service, alongside the community legal sector, will continue to fiercely advocate for fairer laws, and to fight for a just future for all.
