By: Mark Parton MLA
Canberra Liberals Leader Mark Parton has introduced the Crimes (Anti-Consorting) Amendment Bill 2026 to give ACT Policing a practical tool to disrupt outlaw motorcycle gangs and protect the community.
“Every Canberran deserves to feel safe in their home, on their streets and in their community,” Mr Parton said.
“After years of warning that the absence of anti-consorting laws would make Canberra an attractive destination for organised crime, we now have at least five outlaw motorcycle gangs operating in the Territory.”
Local reporting has linked six shootings in the ACT during 2026 to outlaw motorcycle gang activity, alongside incidents involving firearms and arson.
ACT Policing has publicly supported anti-consorting laws. The Chief Police Officer has said the legislation would help disrupt associations and the ability of these groups to gather.
The Bill targets habitual consorting with convicted offenders. An offence can only be established after an official police warning and where a person subsequently consorts with at least two identified convicted offenders, on at least two occasions each, outside legitimate circumstances.
Safeguards include:
- protections for contact with family members
- lawful employment
- education
- health and welfare services;
- and legal advice.
Warnings are time-limited, and the legislation provides for an independent review by the ACT Ombudsman after two years.
“This is not about ordinary Canberrans going about their lives. It is about making it harder for organised crime to establish itself in our city,” Mr Parton said.
“Canberra should not be a safe haven simply because our laws are weaker than those across the border. This Bill sends a clear message: Canberra is not open for criminal business.”
The Bill was introduced to the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.
The Canberra Liberals call on the Government to support the legislation.