| Abstract: | This article focuses on the infringements system currently operating in the state of Victoria, Australia and, in particular, its impact on disadvantaged groups, such as people suffering homelessness, drug and alcohol dependency, mental illness, acquired brain injury, poverty, and domestic violence. The concerns of lawyers working in community legal centres striving to address the needs of people in these disadvantaged groups prompted this qualitative study, which involved in‐depth interviews with key stakeholders in the infringements system. Participants included those who issue and enforce fines, those who represent vulnerable fine recipients, and the fine recipients themselves. The research sought participants' understanding of the system, its aims, and its outcomes. This article presents an overview of the research findings in relation to the complex Victorian infringements system process, net‐widening, proportionality, and the 'special circumstances' process. Our findings suggest that the Victorian infringements system is expedient and efficient when people can promptly pay their fines. However, multiple issues need to be addressed if the system is to be just and fair to people suffering various types of disadvantage. A number of systemic changes and educational initiatives are recommended, along with law reform that addresses the unreasonable and unacceptable impacts on disadvantaged groups in Victoria. |
