Vanessa Hall
Editor
THE CRISAFULLI Government has delivered on one of their much-touted election promises which was to address the “youth crime epidemic” and to put victim’s rights at the forefront. This is set to be achieved via the Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024.
Throughout the past few years, the LNP routinely stated that the previous government’s “watered down crime laws” had played a pivotal role in creating the heightened state of crime and fear across the state. This new bill is set to be a key component in the Crisafulli Government’s approach to this far-reaching and complex issue.
Under the laws, juvenile offenders who commit some of the most serious crimes will face the same penalties as adult offenders and the rights of victims will be put ahead of the rights of offenders.
Under the proposed laws, the Youth Justice Act 1992 would be amended so young offenders committing particular crimes would be subject to the same penalties as adults.
Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie MP said it was an honour to play a pivotal role in the development of these laws and that he was proud to be part of a Government that was prioritising the region’s safety.
“Over the past few years, I have heard too many stories from Ninderry residents who have been living in fear in their homes and workplaces because of the youth crime crisis.
“The elderly and parents of young children tell me they are scared to leave their homes to go to the shops or to sit in a park because they may be harassed or threatened with violence.
“It is unacceptable that law-abiding citizens don’t feel safe anymore and that youth offenders take over the streets and flout the law without consequences for their actions,” Mr Purdie said.
The Crisafulli Government has taken the first step to restoring community safety and legislating ‘Adult Crime, Adult Time’ with the introduction of the landmark Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024 to Parliament recently.
The Bill also includes measures to fully open the Children’s Court for victims and the media.
Premier David Crisafulli said restoring community safety would be the first order of business with the new laws.
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws are the first strike back against a youth crime crisis a decade in the making,” Premier Crisafulli said.
The Premier also stated that this was voted for by Queenslanders.
“Where we are today is the result of decisions made a decade ago; a fresh start is what we need, Queenslanders demanded it, and we are delivering it with the Making Queensland Safer Laws.
“No one is suggesting there will be no crime, but these laws will start to restore safety to our community and mean fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime.
“Youth who choose to commit the most serious crimes will serve the time under these strong laws, but with Gold Standard Early Intervention and effective rehabilitation they will have every opportunity to stay on the right track.”
The Bill is set to be considered by Committee before being debated by Parliament this month and in place before the end of 2024.
The tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Gold Standard Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime.
Adult Crime, Adult Time offences include: Murder, Manslaughter, Unlawful striking causing death, Grievous bodily harm, Wounding, Serious assault, Home and business break-ins and robbery, and Dangerous operation of vehicles.
What do you think of these new laws? Let us know via a letter to the editor – editor@coolumadvertiser.com.au