Kids Vic bail law changes the right move

Bail law reforms will put a stop to the "unacceptable" number of children in detention who don't need to be there, Victoria's children's commissioner says.

Changes to the Bail Act have drawn criticism from police, unions and the opposition, with children no longer charged with breaching bail unless it's for an indictable offence.

But Children's Commissioner Liana Buchanan says minors can still be arrested, brought to court and remanded if they breach bail.

"The reforms are an important measure to reduce the unacceptable number of children in detention who are on remand, and who simply do not need to be there," Ms Buchanan said on Tuesday.

"On any given day, about three quarters of minors in detention have not been convicted of any crime - in fact many are not given a term of detention when they are sentenced."

Ms Buchanan said unfortunately many people still thought locking children up would stop them offending and make the community safer.

"They are kidding themselves - often the opposite is true," she said.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula stood by the reforms in question time, after they drew criticism from the police, unions and opposition on Monday.

Police Association of Victoria secretary Ron Iddles said police workloads will increase.

"This sends a message to those who are under 18 that they can have total disregard for the law and there will be no consequences for your actions," Mr Iddles told reporters on Monday.

Under the changes, committing an indictable offence on bail will continue to be a crime for children but they won't be charged with breaching bail if they break curfew or fraternise with associates banned by the court.