Australia fast-tracks machete ban after shopping centre attack

A fight involving machetes at a Melbourne shopping centre has prompted an Australian state to fast-track the country’s first-ever ban on the weapon’s sale.

The ban – to start in Victoria this Wednesday, instead of September – comes after two gangs attacked each other at Northland shopping centre in Preston on Sunday afternoon. A man, 20, remains in hospital in a serious condition.

Victoria’s premier said the ban will “choke the supply”, adding “the community shouldn’t have to deal with these weapons in their shopping centres – neither should our police”.

Two boys, aged 16 and 15, were on Sunday charged with affray, intentionally causing injury, and possession and use of a controlled weapon.

Read more: BBC News