Police Powers and Responsibilities (Jack’s Law) Amendment Bill 2022
Bill Journey
Introduced30 Nov 2022
Became Act 4 of 20232 Apr 2023
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Plain English Summary
Overview
This bill extends and expands 'Jack's Law' - police powers to scan people for concealed knives without a warrant. Named after 17-year-old Jack Beasley who was fatally stabbed in Surfers Paradise in 2019, the law now applies to all 15 safe night precincts across Queensland and all public transport stations and vehicles.
Who it affects
Anyone visiting nightlife entertainment areas or using public transport may be stopped and scanned. The original 12-month trial in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach detected 68 bladed weapons and led to 154 charges.
Key changes
- Expands scanning from 2 Gold Coast precincts to all 15 safe night precincts statewide
- Extends scanning powers to all public transport stations and vehicles within one scheduled stop
- Requires evidence-based authorisation showing recent knife offences or violent crimes in the area
- Police must publish each scanning authorisation online within 2 months
- Annual reporting required on number of people scanned, weapons detected, and charges laid
- Trial extended to 30 April 2025 (original provisions were due to expire)