Victoria manslaughter jail terms increased

Victorians charged with manslaughter could now face a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, instead of 20.

A new manslaughter offence has also been created for Victorians who kill others by discharging a gun, named homicide by firearm.

The legislation cleared state parliament on Thursday.

The maximum sentence of 25 years will also apply to homicide by firearm, workplace manslaughter and child homicide.

The penalty change brings Victoria in line with NSW and is aimed at helping courts impose sentences which better reflect the broad range of culpability involved in manslaughter cases.

The new firearm offence was an Andrews government election promise, aimed at supporting the families of victims who were shot and killed by their partners.