An Australian inmate has launched legal action against the Victorian government, arguing that being denied access to Vegemite in prison breaches his human rights.
Andre McKechnie, 54, who is serving a life sentence for murder at Port Phillip Prison, has taken the Department of Justice and Community Safety and Corrections Victoria to the Supreme Court of Victoria.
Per AP News, McKechnie claims the ban on Vegemite violates the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities by denying him from being able to “enjoy his culture as an Australian.”
Why Vegemite is banned in Victorian prisons
Vegemite has been banned from Victoria’s prison system since 2006. The department’s list of prohibited items doesn’t name the spread specifically.
However, it notes that the items mentioned don’t represent an exhaustive list, advising that it’s “best to phone the prison before your visit to ask whether you can bring in property for the prisoner.”
According to state authorities, the substance was banned due to its smell being able to mask contraband from sniffer dogs because it contains yeast that inmates could use to create alcohol.
McKechnie’s lawsuit also argues that removing the spread breaches obligations to provide food that supports an inmate’s wellbeing.
The case is expected to reach trial in 2026.
