The Queensland government will introduce its “adult crime, adult time” legislation to parliament on Thursday.
Premier David Crisafulli has vowed to have the laws passed by Christmas as part of an effort to drive down youth crime across the state.
“We went to the election and promised that things would change and they would change by Christmas and I assure you, if I say I’m gonna do one thing on one side of the election, it counts for something and we will be doing it,” he said.
Two people were arrested later today and taken into custody after the service firearm was stolen yesterday.
The gun is yet to be recovered but it is not believed to be a youth justice issue.
Crisafulli said the incident was “alarming”.
The incoming LNP government made the controversial Making Queensland Safer laws its signature election commitment.
Crisafulli has said the government is also committed to early intervention and rehabilitation but that “consequences for actions” will be the first priority.
The policy has been criticised as having the potential to worsen prison overcrowding while failing to address the cause of reoffending.
“We are not going to Christmas with the same weak Youth Justice Act,” the new premier reiterated today.
“I made the promise to Queenslanders and I intend to keep that promise.”
The opposition is yet to say how it will vote on the bill, waiting to see the legislation when it’s released in full.
