Today marks a Fresh Start for Queensland, as the Making Queensland Safer laws are passed by the Queensland Parliament.

This milestone delivers on the Crisafulli Government’s promise to Queenslanders for stronger youth crime laws by Christmas as the first strike back to restore community safety.

The landmark 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.

The strong laws will complement the Crisafulli Government’s commitments in early intervention and rehabilitation, to turn the tide of Queensland’s Youth Crime Crisis.

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.
 

Premier David Crisafulli said the Making Queensland Safer laws delivered on a promise to Queenslanders, outlined in the Government’s 100 Day Plan.

“These laws are for every Queenslander who has ever felt unsafe and been a victim of youth crime across our state,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Queenslanders voted for it, we’ve delivered it and now Adult Crime, Adult Time will be law before Christmas.

“These laws are the first strike back against the Youth Crime Crisis to start restoring safety where you live.

“We have restored consequences for actions, and put victims’ rights ahead of offenders, as they always should have been.”

Find out more by visiting www.qld.gov.au/makingqldsafer