Knife search powers widened, new rules for youth crime
Savannah Meacham |
Police can randomly search Queenslanders for weapons at sporting precincts, shopping centres and on public transport under new laws.
The government will pass its community safety laws on Thursday night, including the expansion of knife search powers called “Jack’s Law”.
Named after teen Jack Beasley who was fatally stabbed on a night out, Jack’s Law was first introduced in nightlife precincts to allow police to wand for knives randomly.
The laws have so far removed 1000 weapons from the streets and led to 2000 people arrested on 3500 charges since their introduction in 2021.
The expanded laws allow police to search for knives in “high-risk” areas like sporting precincts, bars, pubs, shopping centres and on public transport – not just stations.
“This is a significant piece of legislation and one that is very much the envy of other states and internationally,” Assistant Commissioner Andrew Massingham told reporters on Thursday.
“The ability to search someone without a warrant is a significant step but one we don’t take lightly.
“There are safeguards and we will abide by those safeguards.”
Jack’s father Brett and mother Belinda are working with other states and territories to adopt the laws, with NSW set to introduce it in October in the wake of the Bondi stabbing and Western Australia by November.
Tasmania and Victoria are also considering the laws.
“Jack’s Law is a huge power in Queensland it is absolutely working,” Mr Beasley said.
“People have asked me if there is light at the end of the tunnel and I say absolutely … It just takes time to get to that light.”
The bill to be passed on Thursday night will also introduce “Susan’s Law” which creates stricter penalties for dangerous driving, particularly for people evading police or causing harm on the roads.
“Everyone should have the right to simply drive in their car to get milk and bread and come home safely,” said Claudine Snow, who advocated for the laws after her mother was killed from the acts of a reckless driver.
The bill has a plethora of other elements including the amendment to remove detention as a last resort for youth offenders, and instead “where necessary”.
Police Minister Mark Ryan admitted it may lead to more youths in detention, but if it protects the community then it’s worthwhile.
The trial of giving youth criminals bail if they wear an electronic ankle monitoring bracelet will also be extended until 2025.
The laws also introduce fines for social media giants of up to $1 million if they do not comply with removing criminal content like “posts and boasts” of stealing cars or break-and-enters.
“Our provisions will provide the greatest penalty in the nation when it comes to non-compliance by social media companies,” Mr Ryan said.
The new laws will take effect in 2025.
AAP