Police Legislation (Efficiencies and Effectiveness) Amendment Bill 2021
Plain English Summary
Overview
This bill modernises Queensland Police Service operations by cutting red tape that takes officers away from frontline duties. It allows senior police to witness key documents instead of requiring a Justice of the Peace, expands powers to access locked digital devices during investigations, introduces faster saliva drug testing for officers after critical incidents, and updates firearms rules including extending temporary storage periods and supporting the permanent national firearms amnesty.
Who it affects
Police officers benefit from reduced administrative burden and faster processes. People suspected of digital offences face expanded police powers to access their devices. Firearms licence holders and dealers gain more practical storage and amnesty arrangements.
Key changes
- Senior police officers (sergeant and above) can now witness bail, service, and prescribed authority affidavits, saving officers an estimated 5,000 to 22,000 hours annually that was previously spent locating a Justice of the Peace
- Police can apply for court orders to unlock digital devices seized under any lawful power, not just magistrate-issued search warrants, including for intimate image and privacy breach offences
- Saliva drug testing introduced as a faster, less invasive alternative to urine testing for police officers involved in critical incidents, with the definition of 'critical incident' broadened to cover deaths or serious injuries during any police operation
- Temporary firearms storage period doubled from 3 to 6 months, giving more time for deceased estate administration and licence issues
- Licensed firearms dealers can retain anonymously surrendered weapons under the permanent national amnesty with QPS approval, instead of transporting them to police stations
Bill Story
The journey of this bill through Parliament, including debate and recorded votes.
▸Committee16 Sept 2021 – 15 Mar 2022View Hansard
Referred to Legal Affairs and Safety Committee
▸Second Reading18 Nov 2021 – 15 Mar 2022View Hansard
As opposition lead speaker on the Police bill, confirmed the LNP would not oppose the bill, supporting measures that help police do their job while welcoming safeguards on device access.
“The LNP will not be opposing this bill for one simple reason and that is that the LNP supports our police in the difficult job they do and the LNP recognises the vital role they play.”— 2021-11-18View Hansard
Spoke in support of the bill, praising reforms that will bolster police ability to disrupt crime and keep the community safe.
“I rise to speak in support of the Police Legislation (Efficiencies and Effectiveness) Amendment Bill 2021.”— 2021-11-18View Hansard
Supported the bill while raising concerns about the firearms amnesty provisions and the Weapons Licensing Branch's capacity, citing stakeholder feedback from the Shooters Union.
“Queensland's police servicemen and servicewomen deserve our appreciation.”— 2021-11-18View Hansard
Spoke in support of the bill, acknowledging the demands on the police service and supporting the efficiency measures.
“I rise in support of the Police Legislation (Efficiencies and Effectiveness) Amendment Bill 2021.”— 2021-11-18View Hansard
Supported the legislation, emphasising the need to reduce bureaucracy and paperwork keeping police tied to their desks.
“Anything they can do to streamline the bureaucracy and paperwork that is keeping police officers tied to their desks we will support. We support this legislation.”— 2021-11-18View Hansard