A Victorian prisoner is taking legal action to challenge the state’s long-standing ban on Vegemite, claiming it infringes on his cultural rights. Andre McKechnie, 54, who is serving a life sentence for murder, filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court of Victoria, arguing that withholding the iconic yeast-based spread violates his human right to “enjoy his culture as an Australian.”
McKechnie is suing Victoria’s Department of Justice and Community Safety and Corrections Victoria, the agency responsible for managing the state’s prisons. He seeks a court declaration that the defendants have breached the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act, which guarantees individuals with a particular cultural, religious, racial, or linguistic background the right to enjoy their culture, practice their religion, and use their language.
In addition, McKechnie argues that the ban violates the Corrections Act by depriving him of “food adequate to maintain his well-being” and wants the court to order a review of the policy.
Vegemite has been prohibited in Victorian prisons since 2006. Authorities say the spread can interfere with narcotic detection dogs, as inmates had previously smeared packages of illicit drugs with Vegemite to mask their scent. Additionally, the yeast content in Vegemite is banned because it could potentially be used to produce alcohol.
Manufactured in Australia since 1923, Vegemite is a cultural staple, often spread thinly on toast or used in sandwiches. While beloved by many Australians, the product is considered an acquired taste internationally. Its cultural significance was highlighted in the 1980s hit “Down Under” by Men at Work, which mentioned a “Vegemite sandwich.”
The court case is scheduled for trial in 2026. Both the Department of Justice and Corrections Victoria declined to comment, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.
This unusual case raises questions about the balance between prison security and cultural rights, and whether iconic foods like Vegemite can be considered part of an individual’s cultural identity.
