Australia fast-tracks machete ban after shopping centre attack

A violent machete fight between two rival youth gangs at Melbourne’s Northland shopping centre has prompted Victoria to fast-track Australia’s first ban on machete sales. Initially planned for September, the ban will now begin Wednesday. One man, 20, remains hospitalized. Police have arrested four suspects and expect more arrests. Three of the four machetes used were recovered. Premier Jacinta Allan described the attack as “appalling,” stating that such weapons don’t belong in public places. Victoria’s ban covers knives with blades over 20cm but excludes kitchen knives, the BBC has reported. A three-month amnesty will allow machetes to be surrendered at police stations.