The Government has proposed a $50 tax to be enforced upon anyone who commits a crime.

The national-led Government is set to bring forward for discussion a new tax which will be levied on anyone coming to court and being charged with a crime. The new tax will be charged regardless of seriousness of offence, extending from murder to traffic offences.

The collected $50 is aimed at repaying victims of crimes. It will be collected alongside other court fees and is reputed to hold very little extra administrative cost with it. It is expected to garner $5 million per year.

Those opposing the tax claim that in some cases the cost of collecting the fee will surpass the final $50. Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Annette King has said that this move is a “piece of pure political theater’. She further expressed doubt as to how much of the tax victims will actually receive.