Overview
- The Victorian Supreme Court dismissed Andre McKechnie’s legal challenge on Monday, October 26, 2026, concluding his claim that the ban breached his human right to ‘enjoy his culture’ was not made out.
- Justice Claire Harris accepted Corrections Victoria’s evidence that Vegemite’s strong odour can distract trained sniffer dogs and that its yeast‑based properties could be used in attempts to make contraband alcohol.
- The judge said Vegemite may form part of Australian cultural identity but held that cultural rights are curtailed by lawful imprisonment and that the ban is a reasonable, proportionate limit.
- McKechnie, a life‑sentenced prisoner who represented himself, initially raised a vitamin‑deficiency argument but later dropped it and told the court the ban left him feeling sad and cut off from family.
- The ruling keeps Victoria’s ban in place and highlights differing state policies, with Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania also banning Vegemite while some New South Wales and Western Australian prisons permit it.