The decriminalisation of begging passed through state parliament on Thursday, but will not come into effect until September 2027.

Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece told 3AW Mornings host Tom Elliott that there are issues to work through before the legislation comes into effect in Victoria.

Press PLAY to hear him explain why the decision concerns council

“Without that lever, we are concerned about what that will mean for city streets,” Reece said.

Images: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images, iStock