Prisoner sues government claiming Vegemite ban for inmates breaches human rights

by

An Australian prisoner is suing the state of Victoria, claiming the refusal to let him have Vegemite violates his basic human rights.

Andre McKechnie, a 54-year-old prisoner serving a life sentence for murder at Port Phillip Prison, is suing the Department of Justice and Corrections Victoria in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

According to the Associated Press, McKechnie argues that prohibiting Vegemite infringes on his human rights by preventing him from expressing his Australian identity and enjoying a part of his culture.

Why Vegemite is banned in Victorian prisons

Vegemite hasn’t been allowed in Victorian prisons since 2006. While the official list of banned items doesn’t mention it by name, it’s included in the restrictions.

Vegemite has been banned from Victorian prisons since 2006.

The guidance points out this isn’t a complete list of allowed items. It’s always best to call the prison before your visit to confirm what you can bring to the person you’re visiting.

State officials banned the substance because its odor can hide illegal items from detection dogs. This is because it contains yeast that prisoners could potentially use to brew alcohol.

McKechnie’s lawsuit further claims that eliminating the spread violates the requirement to provide inmates with food that maintains their health and wellbeing.

The case is expected to reach trial in 2026.

Read More

2025-11-18 18:22