Stuart Grimley MP | Politician

Stuart Grimley MP

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25.01.2022 We’ve had a win today - after my letter to the Premier earlier in the week, he has announced beauty salons will be able to open alongside hairdressers. I’d been contacted by some salon owners in my electorate who were in disbelief that the roadmap excluded them from opening in the next few stages. Without this change they were not going to be able to open until late November. ... Very happy common sense has prevailed!

25.01.2022 * the video says 4pm but note the Hello Surfcoast campaign is 6pm this Friday* HELLO SURF COAST! I can’t believe only 1 in 4 of us know our neighbours’ names! It’s time to change this... This Friday at 6pm I’ll be joining the Hello Surfcoast team and saying g’day to my neighbours out in the street to make sure they’re doing alright after a crazy year. ... I encourage you to join me! #hellosurfcoast #mentalhealthsupport #neighbours

25.01.2022 Well, there should be no surprises here unfortunately. It was not that long ago that Emm Jones brought a petition to parliament with over 80,000 signatures that sent a loud and clear message to the Government that the judicial system was failing to protect women. And it still is. The petition called for the OPP to appeal the sentence given to Williams for grabbing and dragging a female nurse into a Melbourne laneway. You have probably seen the footage. It was frightenin...g. So much so, that the nurse has since left Victoria I'm led to believe. I have also said that it should not be about where women should or shouldn’t walk or what women should or shouldn’t wear. It must be about respecting women whatever they choose to wear or wherever they choose to be. These types of offending patterns are often a pre-cursor to more violent crimes against women. This sentence sets a dangerous precedent for those opportunistic creeps who continue to target women knowing that the law is likely to be on their side. This case has shone a spotlight on a clear deficiency within the legislation and we are calling on the Attorney-General to review legislation around violence against women. Specifically, we are calling for the creation of a new "Grab and Drag" offence. This offence will fill the void between the offences of ‘Unlawful Assault’ and ‘Assault with intent to commit a sexual offence’ within the Crimes Act . It will be suggested that this new offence should carry the same penalty as Assault with Intent to Commit a Sexual Offence (15 years maximum) and involve simple ‘grab and drag’ elements without the intent to commit a sexual act. If created, this new offence will encourage more women to come forward and report as it provides for greater judicial opportunities to ensure the punishment fits the crime. Not like we have seen in this case.

25.01.2022 Mental health of our veterans is so important. Some initiatives will take a longer time to complete (such as turning an unused Melbourne building into a veterans art museum) and others can be accomplished much sooner - such as the Defence Dogs program. Though our defence forces are a Federal issue, our State has a role to play too in supporting them post-service. I'll fight for these projects - and others - and look forward to the Minister's invitation to work on this together. Feel free to share with anyone who has served in our Defence Forces or who may be affected by mental health issues.

24.01.2022 JURY DUTY BACK ON It’s great news that some criminal jury trials will be resuming next month. Many victims and families have had justice significantly postponed because of COVID.... I look forward to regional criminal cases following this announcement hopefully very soon, given we have extremely few cases (and have had none in my electorate for some weeks...)

24.01.2022 And rightly so.

24.01.2022 Can anyone tell me how an offender who allegedly sexually assaults an 11 year old girl can get BAIL???

22.01.2022 LITTLE WINS // Yesterday was an important day for the crossbench and non-government parties. I successfully secured the necessary votes to pass the second reading of my Victorian Law Reform Commission Amendment Bill. The final vote (20-16) ensures that we are one step closer to ensuring that the Victorian Law Reform Commission: Pursues changes to laws that are in the community’s interest, not just the Government’s Undertakes further investigation into matters that are refer...red to the commission by ordinary members of the public Mandates the need for the commission to report on what proposed changes to laws have resulted from community referral It should be noted that today’s win follows the establishment of Parliamentary Inquiries into Sex Offender Management and the Victorian Legal System, which Tania Maxwell and I have worked to secure. This is the FIRST TIME during this term of Parliament that the Government has lost a vote on a Private Members Bill. This shows why it's so important for minor parties to hold the balance of power in the Parliament. Much more to do but this is a huge step in the right direction!

21.01.2022 This is why we need a public child sex offender register

21.01.2022 SAY NO TO SEXUAL VIOLENCE // Today, an aged care worker and mother of 3 daughters delivered me over 93,000 signatures. Emm Jones, a Melbourne resident and shift worker, has created a petition reflecting the outrage the community feels at the ‘not guilty’ verdict of Jackson Williams and his low sentence of just a 2.5yr community corrections order. You’ve probably seen the CCTV footage of this man attacking a Melbourne nurse in an alleyway - just sickening! ... I’ve accepted the signatures and hope to present them to the Attorney-General in the very near future. In the meantime, keep your voices loud, and sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/appeal-jackson-williams-sexual-ass

21.01.2022 LETTER TO THE PREMIER: ROAD TO RECOVERY I wrote a letter to the Premier. I wish it could’ve been on a more positive note. Unfortunately, my electorate - and broadly regional Victoria - have been feeling let down by Sunday’s Road to Recovery. ... For some of them, it’s a Road to Ruin. The one size fits all approach doesn’t work when you have areas like Buloke Shire who have never had a single case of COVID-19 being boxed in with Geelong; Victoria’s biggest regional centre. It’s not about pitting towns or professions against one another; it’s about having a set of restrictions appropriate for the area you live, such as in our border communities. My thoughts also go out to those sole traders who need to return to work ASAP too. It’s not fair that you don’t have access to support like some other businesses. I’m standing with you.

20.01.2022 Save the Date

20.01.2022 Q&A with me! Another reminder that I’ll be doing a Q&A session TOMORROW NIGHT at 7pm. Link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81483880270 RSVP by PMing me on Facebook or emailing [email protected]... Looking forward to seeing you there!

20.01.2022 As part of my Pollie pay rise commitment that began last year, I’m funding Zef the border collie to go to Hamlyn Banks Primary School to help kids to read. Story Dogs allows volunteers and their pooches to go into schools and sit with kids who may be anxious/nervous about reading, to calm them and help them develop their reading skills. Who wouldn’t be excited about reading to a fluffy dog like Zef? As a former school principal, I’m a big believer that reading is an absol...utely essential skill. Unfortunately due to COVID, Zef and his owner Sophie won’t be able to begin until 2021, but I look forward to seeing their progress next year when (hopefully) COVID isn’t impacting our school operations .

19.01.2022 SIGN THIS PETITION Emm has been a loud and strong voice in seeking changes to our judicial system. Changes that send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated. ... Sign the petition, lend your voice and send a clear message that we have had enough and demand change.

18.01.2022 Bubble buddies // a few weeks ago, I spoke in Parliament about an 12 year old girl - Bella - who had sent me a letter. In her letter she wrote My Grannie who is living by herself, or any other people who live by themselves, are not even allowed to see one family member like me...it has been 6 months. She lives by herself, is lonely and she is 81 years old. So I put pressure on the Government to allow those living alone to be able to visit family or the ones they love, an...d the Chief Health Officer announced the single person household bubble shortly after. There were many others putting this pressure on for small practical change too, so I commend you all for a great team effort. I have been approached, messaged and contacted by so many people who are having difficulties during this time, especially mental health struggles. This is just one step in the right direction to address this issue for some. As with all jobs, there’s good and bad bits. This is definitely one of the good bits. And I’m glad I could’ve helped Bella and her Grannie in a small way. ...And thanks for the soap!

18.01.2022 You must be told if a dangerous dog is in a nearby yard, but not if there is a paedophile living nearby. How ridiculous! When are we going to put the lives and safety of our kids first? The Western Australian sex offender public register has had around 677,000 people check there website since 2014. That could be thousands of children saved from sexual abuse. Victoria state parliament has a sex offender inquiry currently underway. To make a submission for a public sex offender... register, please follow this link https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au//inquiry-into-management Glad to see the Herald Sun has jumped on board our campaign. Derryn Hinch has been calling for a public register for decades. Here's hoping! #springst #keepingkidssafe

18.01.2022 Congratulations to Amelie from Melton West for your Highly Commended poster entry Transdev Melbourne recently held a bus safety competition to educate students about safe behaviours on buses, and help build confidence of students to travel on buses. And remember to always... ... STOP One step back from the kerb. LOOK For traffic to your right, left and right. LISTEN For the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK Whether it is safe to cross. See more

17.01.2022 Today is paramedic practitioner day. As a former frontline worker, I can say these appreciation days are so important. It’s a good day to help understand that not all paramedics work in ambulances. Wishing all paramedics and their colleagues an uneventful, safe day!

17.01.2022 Great news in our fight to stop toxic soil being dumped in Bacchus Marsh, near a school, agricultural assets and waterways. Your work has been outstanding, Bacchus Marsh Says No To Toxic Waste and the Bacchus Marsh Community Coalition. But this isn’t over... and I’ll continue to fight alongside members of the community for a better outcome.

17.01.2022 Last night the Crossbench and Opposition Members in the Legislative Council successfully removed the distressing clause in the Justice Legislation Amendment (Supporting Victims and Other Matters) Bill which would have required families of deceased victims of sexual assault to obtain a court order to tell their stories. #LetUsSpeak #LetHerSpeak #NinaFunnell #springst See comment section for my full speech below

17.01.2022 Do you have a loved one who has been sexually assaulted and is no longer with us? Would you be affected by a gag order on the families of deceased sexual assault victims families? Consultation has opened up until February 2021 and I encourage anyone affected to make a submission about how and to what extent family members, the media and other people should be able to talk about deceased sexual assault victims and the circumstances around their assault. Email: [email protected] to have YOUR say about what these laws should look like.

17.01.2022 PODCAST IS LIVE // My 2nd episode of Demanding Justice is now live. In this episode, I interview Professor Joe Graffam and we talk about recidivism of Victorian prisoners acquired brain injuries and mental issues of prisoners rehabilitation of sex offenders... and whether this can actually happen?... Let me know your thoughts. Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3rDb4umKnsi0halcPowbnf

15.01.2022 The Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party announced on 3AW today it will not support the proposed 12-month State of Emergency extension announced by Premier Andrews. Our... Upper House two members (Stuart Grimley and Tania Maxwell) and I, have heard the deep distress, struggles and concerns from our communities around the state and we stand with all Victorians during these troublesome times. Tragically, coronavirus will not have gone away by the time the current SOE expires on September 13 and some measures must stay in place, but not for 12 months. Our politicians must be involved on a month-by-month rolling basis. The government must also urgently look at exemptions for people struggling in border towns. Mask up and stay strong Victoria.

15.01.2022 RUOK DAY 2020 // There has never been a better or more important time to ask someone how are you?. Be prepared for answers that may be no, not great or I’ve definitely been better. It’s no secret that this is a tough time for most. In my lifetime, restrictions placed on our freedoms, leisure activities and social interaction have never been greater ... but it will be over soon and I encourage you all to spend some time thinking about how you can look after your ow...n mental health: meditate, take up a new skill, call one friend a day, try a new food once a week - be creative! In the meantime, familiarise yourself with support services so that when you ask someone RUOK, and their answer isn’t yes, that you have information armed to help them. BeyondBlue: 1800 512 348 Lifeline: 13 11 14* Domestic Violence Support: 1800RESPECT Suicide CallBack Service: 1300 659 467* *Note that there is also an online chat option, should you not want to talk on the phone with a counsellor. - my staff meeting where a topic of discussion was mental health, especially after the State of Emergency extension where we received literally thousands of messages... some nice and some not-so-nice!

15.01.2022 Cash for Cans I encourage all Western Victorians to have their say on the state-wide Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) and how it would work best for you, your family and your workplace. The CDS is a ‘cash for cans’ system where empty cans, small bottles and cartons can be dropped off at collection points for a refund. ... Similar to the South Australian model, where it became second nature for my family and friends to save our bottles and cans before returning them for a refund of 10 cents a pop! You can have your say here by simply visiting https://engage.vic.gov.au/container-deposit-scheme and answering a short question survey.

15.01.2022 They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. Lest We Forget We will be honouring those who fought for us in Parliament today #springst #remembranceday #lestweforget2020

14.01.2022 ZOOM Q&A // looking forward to speaking to you and answering your questions on a Zoom at 7pm TONIGHT. Link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81483880270

14.01.2022 A shout out to Torquay Lions Club who have been putting support packs together for those doing it tough in the area. Each month the Lions put these packs together and distribute them to those who need it. They approached my office to request hand sanitizers to add to their packs and of course I said yes. ... If you know of any business or individual who could benefit from the use of hand sanitizer (especially to comply with their COVID Safe plans) please PM or email me: [email protected]

14.01.2022 Standing up for victims // What are your thoughts on the DHJP idea of a Grab and Drag offence? This has come after a nurse was dragged into a laneway and the ordeal was only stopped by the presence a passerby... and the offender has received a slap on the wrist. This happens all too often. Give me your feedback below

14.01.2022 I have read a few media reports stating that State MP's have made a deal with the Government to get a 6 month extension of a State of Emergency. Rest assured, that Derryn Hinch's Justice Party has made no deal or any commitment to the Government. Our preference was from the very beginning for a month-by-month rolling extension (if necessary) with conditions. We proposed Regional exemptions to the State of Emergency after listening to all the concerns, however this could not be accommodated by the Government. Next week in Parliament will tell you who voted for this extension. It won't be us. We will continue to fight for Regional Victoria and indeed all Victorians. Stay safe everyone.

14.01.2022 Looking forward to seeing you next week! Great work!

13.01.2022 Apart from one death, today’s numbers are good! We’re on the decline... I’m so proud of regional Victoria especially and the way you’ve been so proactive. Not much longer to go Victoria!

13.01.2022 OMNIBUS BILL // ZERO. That’s how many active COVID-19 cases there are in Western Victoria. Well done to all those who have been doing the right thing. It is you who has brought this number down. Your sacrifices and your efforts. The overall 14-day average case number for regional Victoria is 0.4 and has been that low - and lower - for a long time.... It is well time for regional Victoria to get back up and running. It is well time that confidence is put back into regional Victorians that they will continue to do the right thing when restrictions are further eased. This needs to happen sooner rather than later. Regional Victoria is ready, willing and more than able. That is why, despite the removal of the ‘preventative’ detention provision from the upcoming Omnibus Bill, we still hold concerns over the proposed Authorised Officer reform. The feedback we have been getting from community members particularly in Western Victoria has been overwhelmingly opposed to the amended legislation. You have spoken and we have listened. We will be voting NO to the Omnibus Bill.

12.01.2022 #LETUSSPEAK // In what world should a sexual abuse survivor have to ask their perpetrator PERMISSION to share their name and story? This is what some Victorian survivors currently face and it's simply not good enough. Survivors are unable to use their name or their story without receiving court approval (which could cost thousands) and I completely disagree with this. I welcome the Attorney-General's commitment to amend these laws as quickly as possible, but I also hope that survivors will be consulted as part of the process to fix this mistake to make sure it's done properly. If you're affected by these laws, I encourage you to get in contact with me so we can assist you to be part of the process.

12.01.2022 Can someone explain to me how a GP accused of multiple counts of rape and sexual assault against multiple medical patients was able to continue practising as a GP? I’ll wait for any attempt at answering this. Outrageous.

12.01.2022 Today is National Police Remembrance Day. A day to reflect on those who have given their lives so that our communities are safe and secure. A day to say thanks those who put their lives on the line everyday to keep us all safe. A day to remember those who have died as a result of their duties and mental health injuries. We thank you and we will always remember. The traditional Remembrance Services cannot be held this year due to the COVID-19 restrictions so Victoria Police ...Legacy have teamed up with Victoria Police and a virtual ceremony will be held today with a number of video recordings made in advance and brought together for a complete ceremony. It will be available to the extended police family and streamed on the Victoria Police YouTube from 10am. A virtual Facebook event has also been created for those who wish to participate. Victoria Police In Memoriam #fightingptsdvicpol #thinblueline See more

12.01.2022 #SaveVicSkinClinics -> this is the letter I sent to the Premier yesterday. I’m hoping he and the CHO will see that this is an industry which - with the appropriate safeguards - can open extremely safely and get tens of thousands of people (mostly women) back to work. With our 5th consecutive donut day state-wide today and the reopening of our interstate borders showing us that our risk of transmission is very low, it’s imperative we get these businesses open. ... If I can be of any assistance to you or your business at this time, PM me!

11.01.2022 UPDATE A busy week ahead in Parliament. Amongst the 4 Government Bills being debated this week is the COVID-19 Omnibus Bill which we will be opposing. We have heard you and agree it is time to reopen regional Victoria safely! If there are any other matters you want me to raise in Parliament, let me know at [email protected]

11.01.2022 I want you to join me for a Zoom Q&A Session! It's going to be held on Tuesday 22 September @ 7pm. A great opportunity to ask questions about me, current policies or politics generally. Link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81483880270... RSVP by PMing me on Facebook or emailing [email protected] Looking forward to seeing you there!

11.01.2022 To all Derryn Hinch's Justice Party members, please read this and return your form from the VEC at your earliest convenience. This is needed for re-registration of the party in Victoria. Your support is greatly appreciated and the fight for justice continues! And to those who may be considering signing up as a member, head to justiceparty.com.au

11.01.2022 Are you affected or curious about the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project? AusNet have announced the following drop-in sessions to hear concerns and answer your questions. They have COVID-Safe plans in place. Feel free to share this with your friends and family who may also like to attend...... Stawell Wednesday 30 September 2.00pm 6.30pm, Stawell Bowling Club, 5-7 Napier St, Stawell Beaufort Thursday 1 October 2.00pm 6.30pm, Beaufort Football Club, 39 Park St, Beaufort Ballarat Tuesday 6 October 2.00pm 6.30pm, CE Brown Reserve, Dowling St, Wendouree Creswick Thursday 8 October 2.00pm 6.30pm, Mount Prospect Tennis Club, 35 Bridge St, Creswick Gordon Wednesday 14 October 2.00pm 6.30pm, Gordon Recreation Reserve, 18 Willunga Ave, Gordon Ballan Thursday 15 October 2.00pm 6.30pm, Ballan Football Club, Atkinson/Cowie St, Ballan Darley Wednesday 21 October and Thursday 22 October, 2.00pm 6.30pm, Darley Park Sports Club Cnr Grey and Fitzroy St, Darley Melton Tuesday 27 October and Thursday 29 October, 2.00pm 6.30pm, Melton South Football Club, Reserve Road, Melton *PENDING Covid-19 restrictions easing

11.01.2022 ORANGE DOOR BRIMBANK/MELTON // earlier this year I spoke with Melton Council who indicated they needed an Orange Door shopfront to help service an increase in family violence. In the 12 months preceding March this year, Melton had 2,647 family violence incidents. I’m proud to say an Orange Door has been announced for Brimbank/Melton area and I’ll continue fighting to ensure this Orange Door shopfront is placed in the City of Melton where FV incidents represent 1,539 per 100...,000. If family violence affects you, there are services available: 1800 RESPECT 1800 015 188 (Safe Steps) Or if you require more specific assistance, PM me and I’ll link you up anonymously.

11.01.2022 These are some of the things I've fought for over the past 2 years as an MP and they have been included in the 2020-21 Budget which is great news. Do you have questions about this year's Budget?

09.01.2022 I'm looking forward to seeing DHJP Members faces tomorrow evening for a Zoom with myself, my fellow MP Tania Maxwell and of course, our Party Leader Derryn Hinch. We'll be discussing the year that was, our major achievements, ways you can get involved in 2021 and much more! Whilst I know 2020 has made many of us experts in virtual meetings, if you need assistance logging on feel free to PM my page and we'll give you a hand.... See you there!

09.01.2022 #SaveVicSkinClinics I've been contacted by skin clinics in my electorate who are suffering. They have proven to be some of the most sterile, regulated, infection-controlled environments yet can't open due to the necessity to wear a mask during the treatment. ... You can (rightfully) go to the pub and chat, eat and drink maskless, you can get dental treatment and a number of other things maskless, yet not have your acne or skin condition treated. With 0 cases in regional Victoria, why can't beauty and skin clinics open, with proper COVID-safe plans and protocols? This sector is overwhelmingly run by, and employs women. Women have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and it's imperative these businesses get back up and running as soon as possible.

09.01.2022 Today is Dogs in Politics Day! A little light relief from these trying times we are facing. The companionship of dogs cannot be underestimated. They are great listeners and are always there for you like any true friend! #DogsInPoliticsDay #KeepAusPetFriendly

09.01.2022 To have your say, there is an inquiry underway through the Victoria State Parliament on how we manage and use sex offender information. To view this and make a submission, head to https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au//inquiry-into-management #springst

08.01.2022 Are you a leader? And do you live in Regional Western Victoria? I'm encouraging people within my electorate to put their hand up to be a member of the Regional Partnerships board. This is an important body that informs the State Government on decisions about our regional areas. Some of the criteria is below, but feel free to tag someone you think would be a great advocate for regional/rural Victoria. Candidates must be able to demonstrate, or demonstrate an interest in deve...loping, the following: understanding of the region’s communities, strengths and challenges. good knowledge of how one or more of the following topics affects the region: economy, social issues, or the environment. relationship development and collaboration skills, and participation in established networks within the region (particularly across sectors). strong communication and negotiation skills as well as strong problem solving and decision-making skills. an ability to engage meaningfully with communities and listen to a range of views, and the ability to interpret new and emerging issues. a demonstrated personal commitment to the betterment of the region and a solutions-focused attitude. a perspective that reflects the diversity of the community and adds to the overall diversity of the Regional Partnership. other desirable skills include business, facilitation, strategic planning, and the ability to seek and absorb information from different sources. See more

08.01.2022 REGIONAL VIC WINNING IN BUDGET // It’s been fantastic to see regional Victoria getting some wins in the Vic State Budget, including many that I’ve been fighting hard for. Some of these - so far - include: Upgrades to the Great Ocean Road Walking Trail Upgrades... Road upgrades, especially in busy regional areas like Colac where trucks are constantly using roads Funding for Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Project Thanks to the community for your advocacy on these projects too!

08.01.2022 VICROADS APPOINTMENTS OPEN // Learner permits, Hazard Perception Tests and Drive Tests are open for appointment now! Along with many members of the community, I put pressure on the Government to address this huge backlog of testing and get it underway. ... I asked a question in Parliament to the Government a few weeks ago about this and I’m glad to see they have come to the party!

07.01.2022 Simply horrible and sickening. Great job by the AFP and law enforcement who captured these vermin.

06.01.2022 We have been calling for this program to be rolled out in Victoria for some time now. Ongoing discussions with the Defence Dogs program and Corrections Minister Hutchins. Such a wonderful program yielding great results. #defencedogs #fightingptsdvicpol

06.01.2022 Are you interested in improving the mental wellbeing of farmers and farming communities? Have you experienced mental health issues OR have you cared for or provided support to someone who has? Tag a farmer/member of a farming community or someone who provides support for farming communities in Victoria’s South Coast region!... The National Centre for Farmer Health are seeking farmers and service providers/stakeholders for a number of exciting new project roles: 1 - Community Working Group for guidance on project development, recruiting participants and to make new mental wellbeing resources. (Monthly meetings over an 8 month period) 2 - Participants to help inform a new way of delivering peer-supported mental health support. (1-2 online workshops for 2-3 hours, 1 follow-up online survey for 30 minutes) Financial reimbursement is available for farmers and self-employed farming community members. If interested/for more info, contact Alison Kennedy on [email protected] or 5551 8587 - Ben Brooksby, The Naked Farmer who has made a name for himself through promoting farmer mental health. I spoke about Ben last year and congratulated him on the outstanding work he’s doing for the Wimmera and wider regions.

06.01.2022 Happy Grand Final Day! Hopefully this puts some spring in your step for the weekend ...

05.01.2022 Watch my speech from last night in Parliament about the State of Emergency extension - I voted NO to 6 months but was open to a month-to-month rolling extension with the approval of Parliament so we can get on top of the virus but also get our lives, economy and legal system back on track. Whilst I know not everyone will support my view, I thought this was the most common sense and practical solution to the expiry of the State of Emergency powers the Government hold, without much oversight. I thank every single one of you who have contacted me over the past week.

04.01.2022 REGIONAL DRIVE TESTING NOW OPEN // Tues 15 Sep: I asked this question to the Government (see video) Mon 21 Sep: Govt announces regional drive tests open again Our kids need as little delay as possible to get their drivers license. It’s not simply a matter of ‘independence’, it’s a matter of being able to get to University next year or possibly a job such as an apprenticeship or otherwise. ... Regional areas don’t have the luxury of being able to walk, or bike to work in most cases. Let’s hope that VicRoads has a plan to manage the backlog of Learner drivers who are eagerly awaiting their drive test!

04.01.2022 A great initiative!

04.01.2022 ICYMI: our justice system has pretty much been put on hold as a result of COVID. Just as one example, the County Court has suspended ALL jury trials until at least the end of the year and judge-only trials - which can be used in lieu of juries - are few and far between. Maddison Parrott’s parents are just a few of the indirect victims of crime... they want this to be over but they won’t have some sort of closure until Maddison’s alleged killer is sentenced. ... Thanks Geelong Advertiser for covering this one.

03.01.2022 Echoing the comments of Derryn Hinch: This is a bloody disgrace. Richard Pusey - the man who allegedly filmed police officers and verbally abused them whilst they lay were dying on the Eastern Freeway some months ago - has been granted bail. This man allegedly boasted he could drive 300kmh on our roads and hoped to reach 350kmh and complained following the incident that his sushi lunch had been ruined.... In opposing bail, police warned that Pusey could intimidate witnesses. Unbelievable. Our justice system is anything but. #springst #bailreform #nojustice #thinblueline

02.01.2022 WHAT IS IN THE SOIL? "Months and months later we are still fighting for full transparency about what is in the soil being trucked away from the West Gate Tunnel Project. It’s simply not good enough that the EPA can make decisions about the dumping grounds for this soil without laying down all the facts to the local council and the community first. For example, the risk based trigger levels of PFAS during containment has been redacted in their environmental management plans; I don’t know about you, but I feel like that’s important information. Congratulations to the Bacchus Marsh Community Coalition who are still fighting this grassroots campaign to get to the truth. --> https://stuartgrimley.com/1273-2/

02.01.2022 Gearing up for the Grand Final tonight. Go Cats!

02.01.2022 We. Need. A. Public. Child. Sex. Offender. Register. Now!!

01.01.2022 ** DAY FOR DANIEL ** Such an important day today as we raise awareness of child safety, protection and harm prevention. This time last year, I was fortunate enough to participate in Daniels Walk with Daniel Morcombe Foundation and was amazed at the level of support shown as we walked in unity in memory of Daniel. It was a very emotional day for all. This year, although unable to attend in person, I among many others, are showing our support by wearing red today and getting out walking the 6km trek in our local communities. I encourage you to do the same. To Bruce, Denise and team - well done on making this day so very special and for continuing to raise awareness for child safety. You truly are an inspiration!

01.01.2022 GAG ORDER ON VICTIM-SURVIVORS TO BE LIFTED // I'm very happy to report that the State Government have committed to reviewing the legislation that has suppressed victim-survivors from being able to self identify. It's not a secret that many victims of crime, especially of sexual assault don't want to be identified for the offence, but for others it is a way to share their story, to support others going through recovery and in order to move on. If victims who do not consent ar...e not identified or harmed in the process, we believe survivors should be able to share their name and their story. And the decision to do this certainly shouldn't be in the hands of their perpetrator. Ever. If you have been affected by this legislation and can no longer share your name or your story, please reach out to me.