Hon Di Farmer MP

This bill reforms Queensland's youth justice system to keep more children out of detention while awaiting trial. It creates a clear presumption that children should be released on bail, bans electronic tracking devices for young people, and requires police to consider alternatives to arrest when children breach bail conditions.

This bill enables Queensland to participate in the national redress scheme for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse, following recommendations from the Royal Commission. It allows survivors to receive monetary payments, counselling, and acknowledgment from institutions without going to court.

This bill creates a permanent Queensland Small Business Commissioner to support small businesses with advice, advocacy, and dispute resolution. It transitions the temporary COVID-19 commissioner role established during the pandemic into a permanent statutory position, making Queensland consistent with other mainland states.