There have been renewed calls for women to be allowed to carry pepper spray for self-defence.

It is currently illegal to carry pepper spray in Victoria, so many have resorted to sourcing it from Western Australia, where it is a ‘controlled weapon’.

The maximum penalty is one-year in jail and an $18,000 fine.

Neil Mitchell thinks it should be legalised and regulated here as well.

Upper House MP Jeff Bourman told Neil it’s unfortunate that law-abiding people are being forced to break the law to protect themselves.

‘I do believe it’s time to have another look at this,’ Mr Bourman said.

‘Police numbers and crime are growing disproportionately and people are being put more and more into harm’s way.’

Mr Bourman said the government hasn’t shown any interest in making any changes.

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