With crime in Victoria running rampant it’s clear that we cannot rely on police alone to protect us when danger strikes.
Police officers do their best, but they can’t be everywhere at once. The reality is that when an attacker confronts you, seconds matter — and help may be minutes away. In that critical moment, the difference between safety and harm can be the ability to defend yourself.
Right now, in Victoria, law-abiding citizens are denied access to one of the most effective, non-lethal and popular self-defence tools available: pepper spray.
In many countries it’s legal for ordinary people to carry pepper spray to protect themselves and their families. In Western Australia it's legal to purchase and the Northern Territory have just commenced a trial, but in Victoria you can face charges for simply having it - even if it saves your life.
We shouldn’t have to wait for another crime statistic or tragedy for change.
Victoria must legalise pepper spray — because your safety is your right, not a privilege.
What the Media is Saying
Why Pepper Spray?
Pepper Spray is:
🛡️ Non-Lethal - Even where firearms are legal, pepper spray is still more popular.
👌 Easy to use - Safe for all adults and requires minimal training.
🌏 Proven Overseas - In many countries, it's a legal and trusted safety tool.
If you’re faced with an attacker, you shouldn’t have to rely on luck.
You should have the right to defend yourself effectively — without risking criminal charges.
The
Solution
When it comes to personal safety, Victoria’s current laws fall dangerously short of community expectations. Law-abiding citizens should not be treated like criminals for wanting to protect themselves and their families.
The Libertarian Party believes it’s time to fix this — not with bureaucracy, but with principled, practical action.
We’re calling for immediate changes that prioritize the rights of everyday Victorians and restore confidence in personal safety.
Empower responsible, law-abiding citizens — particularly women, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals — to carry non-lethal protection. In many parts of the world, this is standard. It’s time Victoria caught up.
1. Legalise Pepper Spray
2. Protect the Victim
Revise current self-defence laws so that those who act in genuine self-defence are not forced to prove their innocence or live in fear of prosecution. The law must stand with the victim.
3. Act Now
Launch a comprehensive, transparent review of Victoria’s self-defence legislation to ensure it reflects common sense, fairness, and community standards — not outdated ideology.
This isn’t about politics — it’s about your right to feel safe.
Whether walking home from work or traveling alone at night, you deserve the legal means to defend yourself without fear of being treated like a criminal.
But to make this happen, we need your voice.
Take Action Today
Sign our petition. Share this message.
Help us send a clear and powerful signal to Parliament.