The state government last week passed their Making Queensland Safer Laws in Queensland Parliament.
The laws include Adult Crime, Adult Time, removing detention as a last resort, allowing courts to consider a youth offender’s full criminal history and opening up the Children’s Court to victims, their families and media.
Once assent of the Bill occurs, The Making Queensland Safer Laws will immediately be in effect with youth offenders who commit serious crimes facing the same penalties as adult offenders.
Adult Crime, Adult Time will apply to 13 of the most serious offences including murder, manslaughter, unlawful striking causing death, grievous bodily harm, wounding, serious assault, home and business break-ins and robbery, and dangerous operation of vehicles.
“These laws are for every Queenslander who has ever felt unsafe and been a victim of youth crime across our state,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
“We have restored consequences for actions, and put victims’ rights ahead of offenders, as they always should have been.”
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said these were the tough laws Queenslanders had demanded.
“These laws are tough and are the first step in restoring safety to our community,” she said
Police Minister Dan Purdie said these strong new laws are what police have been asking for to fight the youth crime crisis.
“Queensland Police officers now have another weapon in their arsenal – strong laws,“ he said.
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws will help police officers protect Queenslanders from rampant crime and out of control youths flagrantly working the system to their advantage.”
Youth Justice Minister Laura Gerber said the Making Queensland Safer Laws would work hand in hand with early intervention and rehabilitation.
