The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has launched a new knife crime prevention campaign ‘End Knife Violence’, in support of new knife laws coming into effect on 1 September.
The ‘End Knife Violence’ campaign urges Queenslanders to work together to make our state safer and end knife violence.
The campaign also aims to support awareness among businesses of their new responsibilities once legislation comes into effect.
The new laws, which ban the sale of knives to juveniles, will require retailers to securely store particular controlled items such as double-edged knives, machetes, tomahawks, and axes and display signage regarding age-restricted items.
Any advertising of knives or controlled items that suggests them ‘suitable for combat’ will be prohibited to further curb notoriety of weapon carrying.
In a joint effort, the QPS has partnered with National Retail Association who will undertake extensive engagement activities including visiting thousands of retailers across more than 500 shopping centres and precincts across Queensland.
There will also be a range of support services available to help businesses understand the new laws and transition smoothly including advice, fact sheets and signage along with free online training sessions and a phone hotline.
The new laws signify a major step towards reducing weapon accessibility among young people and advancing the fight against knife crime.
QPS will be enforcing these laws once they come into effect in September, including in-store compliance visits.
Since Jack’s Law passed in March 2023, 577 weapons have been seized during more than 5,600 operations across the state.
Jack’s Law was introduced in response to the tragic stabbing death of Jack Beasley in 2019, allowing police to conduct metal detection wanding operations in Safe Night Precincts on public transport and at public transport hubs.
More than 59,000 people have been ‘wanded’ during operations, with 1,500 people charged with 2,800 offences.
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said the QPS’ first priority is keeping the community safe.
“We have seen the devastating impacts from knife crime, including the lifelong trauma for victims, their families, and the community,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“Jack’s Law has been an incredible step forward in the fight against knife crime in Queensland.
“Alongside our enforcement efforts, these new laws will help stop young people from having access to these dangerous knives to begin with.”
Find out more at endknifeviolence.com.au
Toll-free hotline for retailers: 1800 571 146
Businesses can register for an online session here: bit.ly/qldknifelaws
Businesses can contact the National Retail team by emailing policy@nationalretail.org.au
