The Premier has followed through with his promise to Queenslanders to make “adult crime, adult time” legislation by Christmas.
The landmark youth crime laws passed State Parliament overnight with the support of all LNP, Katter and Labor Party members.
The laws also include 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 and media.
The Queensland Governor is set to sign the legislation into law this morning before they officially come into effect from December 20.
Once in play, it will see juvenile criminals who commit serious crimes including murder, manslaughter and unlawful striking causing death face the same penalties as adult offenders.
David Crisafulli said the laws would fulfil his election pledge to reduce crime victim numbers in his first term of Government.
“These laws are for every Queenslander who has ever felt unsafe and been a victim of youth crime across our state,” the Premier 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.”
Police Minister Dan Purdie said the stronger laws are what police have been asking for to fight the youth crime crisis.
“When our police officers called for backup Labor simply didn’t send it,” Minister Purdie said.
“Queensland Police officers now have another weapon in their arsenal – strong laws.
“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.”
