Safety & Emergency

Emergency services, disaster response, community safety

View connections →

58th Parliament (2024–present)20 bills

Transport and Other Legislation (Managing E-mobility Use and Protecting Our Communities) Amendment Bill 2026

Awaiting DebateThis bill has been introduced but the main debate (second reading) hasn't started yet.

•Police can seize and destroy non-compliant e-mobility devices and unregistered motorbikes found on roads or in public placesClause 8 (ch 4A)New Chapter 4A of PPR Act creates powers to seize 'prohibited bikes' on reasonable suspicion, with forfeiture after 30 days if no valid release application.
•Parents face fines if their child under 16 rides an e-mobility device or illegal motorbike in publicClause 34 (s 78D)Parent is taken to have committed the same offence as the child. Defence available if parent proves they did not know or took all reasonable steps.
•Selling an e-scooter, e-bike or unregisterable motorbike to anyone under 16 is now an offence with penalties up to 420 penalty unitsClause 25 (s 19Q)Escalating penalties: 140 PU first offence, 280 PU second, 420 PU third or later. Retailers must display prohibition signs.
•Pedestrians benefit from a new offence targeting e-mobility devices parked in ways that block footpath accessClause 60 (s 253A)Offence for parking an EPAC or PMD on a path or nature strip in a way that unreasonably obstructs pedestrians or other vehicles. Maximum 20 penalty units.

25/3/2026· Hon B Mickelberg MPTransport & RoadsJustice & Rights

Criminal Code (Defence of Dwellings and Other Premises—Castle Law) Amendment Bill 2026

In CommitteeThis bill is being examined by a parliamentary committee before further debate.

•Queenslanders gain clearer legal rights to defend themselves during home invasions without fear of prosecutionClause 3, new s 267Enshrines castle law principles: a person should not be required to retreat from their own home nor hesitate in the face of violent intrusion out of fear of prosecution.
•The bill responds to widespread community concern about violent and repeat home invasions, following an e-petition with 113,380 signaturesExplanatory Notes — Reasons for the Policy ObjectivesThe largest e-petition in Queensland history declared 'Queenslanders do not feel safe in their own homes, knowing that offenders have more rights than occupants.'
•Force likely to cause death or grievous bodily harm is permitted where the occupier reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent death or bodily harm to themselves or another personClause 3, new s 267(2)(b)(ii)Authorises lethal force where the person reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent the death of, or bodily harm to, the person or another person.

4/3/2026· Mr R Katter MPJustice & Rights

Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026

Awaiting DebateThis bill has been introduced but the main debate (second reading) hasn't started yet.

•Stealing metal from critical infrastructure like power lines, water pipes or telecommunications now carries penalties up to 25 years if it endangers lifeClause 39, items 19-20New special case penalties for stealing valuable metal items or components that endanger life or health, or occur during natural disasters.
•Possessing a suspected stolen catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter or cabling is now a criminal offence carrying up to 3 years imprisonmentClause 40, new section 401Creates a new possession offence for prescribed metal items reasonably suspected of being stolen.
•Scrap metal dealers who repeatedly fail to report suspected stolen metal face escalating penalties — up to 300 penalty units for a third offenceClause 121Introduces escalating penalties for second-hand dealers who contravene the obligation to inform police about suspected stolen scrap metal.
•Metal theft during natural disasters or disaster preparation now attracts the maximum penalty of 25 years imprisonmentClause 39, item 20The disaster aggravation captures offending during disaster operations in anticipation of, during, or in a declared area for a natural disaster.

4/3/2026· Hon D Frecklington MPJustice & RightsRegional Queensland

Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Anti-Social Behaviour Amendment Bill 2026

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•The government can declare Designated Business and Community Precincts in areas where anti-social behaviour is a significant problemClause 32 (new s 808D)The Minister may prescribe a DBCP by regulation to enhance public safety, reduce anti-social behaviour, or prevent disruption to businesses, subject to consultation with local government and review every 3 years.
•Police can conduct warrantless hand-held scanner searches in declared precincts without needing prior approval from a senior officerClause 17 (amending s 39BA)Extends Jack's Law to allow hand held scanning in designated business and community precincts without the current requirement for senior police officer authorisation.
•People disruptive in declared precincts can be directed to leave for up to 24 hours and banned for up to three months if behaviour continuesClause 22 (amending s 48) and Clause 29 (replacement s 602C)Move-on directions in DBCPs can require a person to leave and not return for up to 24 hours; banning notices extend up to one month initially and three months if extended.

3/3/2026· Hon L Gerber MPJustice & RightsHealth

Fighting Antisemitism and Keeping Guns out of the Hands of Terrorists and Criminals Amendment Bill 2026

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Unlawful weapons trafficking now carries life imprisonment — the strongest penalty in AustraliaClause 72Increases the maximum penalty for unlawful trafficking in weapons under section 65 of the Weapons Act to life imprisonment.
•Possessing or sharing 3D-printed firearm blueprints is now a criminal offence carrying up to 10 years imprisonmentClause 74 (new s 67A)New section 67A prohibits the possession or distribution of blueprint material for manufacturing firearms on 3D printers or electronic milling machines.
•Recklessly firing a weapon towards a building or vehicle can result in up to 20 years imprisonment if motivated by hate or linked to organised crimeClause 68 (new s 56A)New section 56A with base penalty of 16 years, rising to 20 years where the offender targeted a place of worship, was motivated by hatred, or was a participant in a criminal organisation.
•Licensed firearms owners must now be Australian citizens and store weapons in solid steel containers onlyClauses 56, 114-115Restricts licence eligibility to Australian citizens (with exceptions for sport shooters and occupational needs) and removes solid timber as an approved storage container.

10/2/2026· Hon D Purdie MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Youth Justice (Electronic Monitoring) Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•Electronic monitoring is now available statewide, not just in certain prescribed geographic areasClauses 8–9Removes Part 2A and Schedule 1AA from the Youth Justice Regulation 2016 which prescribed specific geographic areas.
•The government's independent evaluation found monitoring was associated with fewer offences involving victims while young people were on bailThe evaluation found electronic monitoring was associated with reduced reoffending and lower victimisation.

10/12/2025· Hon L Gerber MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•The regulator now has clearer powers to ban unsafe electrical equipment from being sold, installed or used in Queensland for up to 10 yearsClause 4 (new section 122D)The regulator may give an unsafe equipment direction prohibiting the sale, installation or use of electrical equipment that is or is likely to become unsafe.
•Seven existing bans on unsafe electrical equipment from 2013 to 2024 will continue under the new framework for another 10 yearsClause 7 (new section 262)Continuing prohibitions transition into unsafe equipment directions under the modernised framework.
•If your electricity distributor finds unsafe electrical equipment at your property, they can legally require you to fix itClause 6Confirms the regulation-making power for electricity entities to give notices requiring action on defective electrical equipment.

28/10/2025· Hon J Bleijie MPWork & EmploymentBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Community Protection and Public Child Sex Offender Register (Daniel’s Law) Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•A new public register helps communities stay informed about child sex offenders who are missing or living in their areaPart 5AA (Clause 8)Establishes a three-tiered community protection register administered by the Queensland Police Service.
•The Police Commissioner can deem an offender a serious risk if they pose a threat to the lives or sexual safety of childrenSection 74AG(5) (Clause 8)The Police Commissioner may deem a reportable offender a serious risk offender, making their photo available through the locality search. This power cannot be delegated.
•The register must be independently reviewed within five years to assess whether it is working effectivelyClause 9 (Section 74C)The Minister must ensure an independent review is carried out as soon as practicable after five years, with the report tabled in the Legislative Assembly.

27/8/2025· Hon D Purdie MPChildren & FamiliesJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•The expanded fitness-to-drive duty means drivers affected by drugs, alcohol, or poor health cannot legally drive any heavy vehicle, not just large trucksClause 116New section 512A defines 'fit' to include being physically and mentally fit, and not affected by alcohol or drugs.
•Ministers gain new powers to direct the Regulator to act immediately when there is a serious public safety risk from heavy vehiclesClause 132New sections 651A-651D provide ministerial direction powers for serious public risks, with directions published on the Regulator's website.

26/8/2025· Hon B Mickelberg MPTransport & RoadsWork & Employment

Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•Road safety improves with the fitness-to-drive duty now covering health, drugs, and alcohol for all heavy vehicle drivers, not just fatigue for larger trucksClauses 46, 49Defines 'unfit to drive' as not being of sufficiently good health or fitness to drive safely. Includes being affected by drugs or alcohol.
•Ministers gain new powers to direct the Regulator to act on serious public safety risks, including suspending accreditationsClause 132New sections 651A and 651B allow responsible Ministers to direct the Regulator to take action to prevent or minimise serious public risks.
•Courts can now convict on a lesser charge if a serious safety duty offence is not fully proven but evidence supports a related offenceClause 19New section 26I enables alternative verdicts for primary duty offences, allowing courts to convict on Category 2 or 3 offences when a Category 1 charge is not proven.

26/8/2025· Hon B Mickelberg MPTransport & RoadsWork & EmploymentCommittee: pass

Queensland Building and Construction Commission and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•Serious safety incidents on building sites are still reported to a regulator, but information-sharing arrangements mean one report now reaches both the QBCC and the workplace safety regulatorClause 26Information-sharing arrangements between regulators replace the requirement for duplicate notifications of the same safety incident.
•The penalty for failing to report a serious safety incident to the relevant regulator increases from 80 to 100 penalty unitsClause 26The penalty for non-compliance with section 54A is increased to 100 penalty units, consistent with penalties under the WHS Act and ES Act.

27/6/2025· Hon S O'Connor MPBusiness & EconomyTechnology & DigitalCommittee: pass (dissent)

Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•A new offence specifically targets government impersonation scams, making it easier to prosecute people who pretend to be from a government agencyClause 10, new s 97AAddresses a gap where impersonating a government body (as opposed to an individual officer) was not specifically criminalised.
•Blue card negative notices must now be cancelled (not just 'may' be cancelled), ensuring people who should not work with children are properly excludedClause 19, amended s 609Changes 'may' to 'must' for cancellation of negative notices, strengthening enforcement.

20/5/2025· Hon D Frecklington MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Victim-survivors can be offered a safety device linked to the perpetrator's GPS monitor, alerting them when the perpetrator enters a restricted zoneClause 15, new section 66EChief executive may ask a prescribed entity to provide a safety device to an aggrieved or named person and remotely monitor it.
•A person subject to a PPD automatically loses their weapons licence and must surrender their weaponsClause 77, amended section 28AWeapons licence held by a respondent to a PPD is revoked once the direction takes effect.
•Police protection directions include built-in safeguards against misidentification, including a ban on cross-directions and mandatory consideration of who most needs protectionClause 19, new sections 100C and 100LPolice must not issue a PPD if both persons appear to need protection and the primary aggressor cannot be identified.

30/4/2025· Hon A Camm MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Corrective Services (Parole Board) Amendment Bill 2025

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•When Corrective Services flags a parolee as a community safety risk, the full Parole Board must now review the outcome even if the initial decision was not to suspend paroleClause 3 (new s 208C(1))The Board must review all decisions by prescribed board members after a request for immediate suspension from QCS, including where the member decided not to suspend parole.
•The Board can now overturn a single member's decision to keep a parolee in the community and instead suspend or cancel their parole orderClause 3 (new s 208C(1)(b))For a decision not to suspend a parole order, the Board can set aside the decision and substitute its own decision to suspend or cancel the parole order.

3/4/2025· Hon L Gerber MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Police Powers and Responsibilities (Making Jack’s Law Permanent) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can scan for knives in any public place — not just designated venues — with senior officer approval for up to 12 hoursClause 11 (amended s 39C)Senior police officer may authorise hand held scanning in any public place if satisfied it is likely to be effective to detect or deter knife offences.
•Marine Rescue Queensland can now receive charitable gifts and donations, helping it build a state-wide rescue serviceClause 4 (new s 28A)MRQ is a charitable institution in relation to a gift, donation, bequest or legacy to MRQ under a trust instrument or other document.
•SES volunteers can serve with confidence — past appointments that may have been technically invalid are now confirmed as lawfulClause 23 (new ss 58-59)Retrospectively validates appointments of SES members made by regional directors or managers without formal delegation from the Commissioner.

2/4/2025· Hon D Purdie MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Making Queensland Safer (Adult Crime, Adult Time) Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•Victims automatically placed on the eligible persons register can now nominate a support worker or other person to receive custody movement updates on their behalfClause 7A person registered under subsection (3) may nominate a person (a nominee) to receive the detainee information for the person.
•Offences targeting emergency workers — damaging an emergency vehicle and endangering a police officer while driving — are now included in the adult penalties scheme for young offendersClause 5Criminal Code s.328C Damaging emergency vehicle when operating motor vehicle and s.328D Endangering police officer when driving motor vehicle added to section 175A.

1/4/2025· Hon D Crisafulli MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Hazardous vaping goods containing lithium-ion batteries can be destroyed quickly rather than stockpiled in fire-prone storage facilitiesClause 20 (new s 205B)Vaping goods pose fire and explosion risks from lithium-ion batteries, requiring expensive fire-resistant storage. Immediate forfeiture reduces these safety risks.
•If your vaping goods are wrongly seized and destroyed, you can still claim compensation through the courtsSection 219 of TOSPA (existing)Section 219 allows individuals to claim compensation for loss or expense from the exercise of enforcement powers, with compensation awarded if the court deems it just.

14/3/2025· Hon T Nicholls MPHealthCommittee: pass (dissent)

Youth Justice (Monitoring Devices) Amendment Bill 2025

PassedThis bill became law.

•Electronic monitoring of young repeat offenders on bail continues in 13 locations across Queensland, from Cairns to the Gold CoastClause 3Trial sites prescribed by the Youth Justice Regulation 2016 include Townsville, North Brisbane, Moreton, Logan, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Mount Isa, Cairns, South Brisbane, Ipswich, Fraser Coast, Mackay, and Rockhampton.
•The monitoring is designed to promote compliance with bail conditions and protect the community from serious repeat youth offendingElectronic monitoring is justified having regard to promoting compliance with bail conditions, which are aimed in part at protecting the community.

20/2/2025· Hon L Gerber MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Crocodile Control and Conservation Bill 2025

DefeatedThis bill was defeated at the second reading — the main debate on its principles. It cannot proceed further.

•Crocodiles in waterways commonly used by people would have been killed or relocated within 48 hours of being reportedClause 23(2)(d)If the authority is notified of a crocodile located in a zero-tolerance zone, ensuring action is taken by the director to manage any risk associated with the crocodile within 48 hours.
•Popular swimming, fishing, and boating spots would have been declared 'populated waterways' where crocodiles are not toleratedClause 19The director may declare a waterway as a populated waterway for the purposes of protecting members of the public from the risk of harm from crocodiles.
•Landowners could have requested the Crocodile Authority remove crocodiles from their propertyClause 10(1)(k)If requested by the owner of land, to authorise a person to remove a crocodile from the land.

19/2/2025· Mr S Knuth MPEnvironmentRegional QueenslandCommittee: not recommended

Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Courts must give primary regard to the impact on victims when sentencing young offenders, putting community safety ahead of rehabilitation principlesClause 15 (new section 150(1AB))In sentencing a child for an offence, a court must have primary regard to any impact of the offence on a victim.
•Victims of violent or sexual offences by young people are automatically registered to receive information about the offender's custody and releaseClause 54 (new section 282A)Switches from opt-in to opt-out model for the eligible persons register, removing the need for victims to apply.

28/11/2024· Hon D Crisafulli MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

57th Parliament (2020–2024)42 bills

Crocodile Control, Conservation and Safety Bill 2024

Lapsed

•Crocodiles in populated waterways would be killed or relocated within 48 hours of being reportedClause 23(2)(d)If the authority is notified of a crocodile located in a zero-tolerance zone, action must be taken to manage any risk within 48 hours.
•Popular swimming, fishing, and boating spots would be declared as populated waterways where no crocodiles are toleratedClause 19The Director may declare a waterway as a populated waterway, having regard to the public's recreational or commercial use and enjoyment.
•The Queensland Crocodile Management Plan would be reviewed within 6 months to establish zero-tolerance zonesClause 21

21/8/2024· Mr S Knuth MPEnvironmentRegional Queensland

Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

PassedThis bill became law.

•E-scooters, e-bikes, electric skateboards and home battery systems can now be subject to electrical safety standards and recall if they pose a riskClauses 5-6 (ss 14, new 14A)The definition of electrical equipment is expanded to include prescribed electrical equipment at extra low voltage, enabling regulation of emerging technologies posing electrical risk.
•If a member of the public is killed by negligent workplace conduct — such as scaffolding collapsing onto a public area — the industrial manslaughter offence now appliesClause 42 (new s 34C)Expands industrial manslaughter to capture deaths of individuals other than workers, such as bystanders, to whom a health and safety duty is owed.
•Courts can now convict of a lesser offence if industrial manslaughter cannot be proven, preventing defendants from being acquitted despite evidence of culpabilityClause 42 (new s 34E)Provides alternative verdicts of Category 1 or Category 2 offences on an indictment charging industrial manslaughter.
•Training quality for high-risk work licences will be regulated after concerns raised by the Dreamworld and Eagle Farm tragediesClauses 44-45 (Sch 1, new s 5; Sch 3, new s 6A)Establishes a regulation-making power for the WHS Regulator to prescribe minimum training standards for RTOs delivering authorisation training.

22/5/2024· Hon G Grace MPWork & EmploymentBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass (dissent)

Crocodile Control and Conservation Bill 2024

WithdrawnThis bill was withdrawn from consideration and will not become law.

•Crocodiles in waterways used by the public would have to be killed or relocated within 48 hours of being reportedClause 23(2)(d)Ensures action is taken by the director to manage any risk associated with a crocodile within 48 hours if located in a zero-tolerance zone.
•Popular swimming, fishing and boating spots could be declared 'populated waterways' with mandatory crocodile removalClause 19The director may declare a waterway as a populated waterway, having regard to the public's recreational or commercial use and enjoyment of the waterway.
•The Queensland Crocodile Management Plan would be reviewed within 6 months to establish zero-tolerance zonesClause 21The director must review the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan for the purpose of establishing a zero-tolerance zone.

22/5/2024· Mr S Knuth MPEnvironmentRegional Queensland

Criminal Justice Legislation (Sexual Violence and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Domestic violence victims can have their police-recorded statements used in committal hearings without needing to attend court and re-tell their experienceClauses 26-27Clarifies admissibility of recorded statements in DFV committal proceedings including registry committals.
•Women on remand can now participate in rehabilitation programs without admissions being used against them in courtClause 6 (new s 344AB)Admissions made during prison programs are inadmissible in proceedings for the offence the prisoner is remanded for.
•A statutory review must assess whether these reforms are working, including their impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, within five yearsClause 4 (new s 14)Attorney-General must review the operation and effectiveness of all Taskforce-related amendments, considering outcomes for victim-survivors, perpetrators, and First Nations peoples.

21/5/2024· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Queensland Community Safety Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can now scan for knives at shopping centres, sporting venues, licensed premises, and on trains and light rail — not just Safe Night PrecinctsClauses 26-38 (Division 3)Expands Jack's Law hand-held scanner framework to additional public places including shopping centres, retail premises open late at night, and entire rail lines.
•Social media companies must remove videos glorifying crime within 24 hours or face civil penalties of up to 10,000 penalty unitsClause 4 (new Chapter 21A, PPRA)Police can issue removal notices to online service providers. Non-compliance can lead to Supreme Court civil penalty orders.
•First-time low-range drink drivers can receive an on-the-spot fine and automatic 2-month licence disqualification instead of going to courtClause 96 (new ss 79H-79J)Infringement notice of 7.5 penalty units for first offence BAC 0.05-0.10 with open Queensland licence. Licence disqualified for 2 months starting 28 days after notice.
•Maximum penalty for carrying a knife in public increased, with higher penalties for repeat offendersClause 40First offence: 50 penalty units or 18 months. Second or later offence: 100 penalty units or 2 years imprisonment.

1/5/2024· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Criminal Code (Defence of Dwellings and Other Premises—Castle Law) Amendment Bill 2024

Lapsed

•The defence was extended beyond homes to cover vehicles, caravans, tents and other premises, giving people in those situations the same protections as homeownersClause 3, new s 267The term 'premises' under Schedule 1 of the Criminal Code includes buildings, vehicles, caravans, tents and caves.
•People could have used serious force where an intruder entered with one or more other people, recognising the heightened danger of group intrusionsClause 3, new s 267(2)(a)(iv)Lethal force authorised where the intruder 'is in company with 1 or more persons'.
•The bill aimed to deter home invasions by sending a clear message that occupants have legal backing to defend themselvesClause 3The explanatory notes state the amended section 267 'sends a message to society that home invasions will not be tolerated and will act as a deterrence'.

1/5/2024· Mr N Dametto MPJustice & Rights

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police retain the ability to conduct immediate searches without waiting for gender preferences in emergencies such as suspected concealed weaponsClause 42 (new s 624A(2))This section does not apply if an immediate search of the person is necessary — for example, because it is reasonably suspected that the person may have a bomb or concealed firearm.
•Watchhouse officers now have express power to touch an entrant's garments during belongings inspections, with new gender safeguardsClauses 45-46 (amended s 644, new s 644A)Inserts a power to allow a watchhouse officer or assistant to touch the garments an entrant is wearing for the purpose of inspecting belongings.

21/3/2024· Hon N Boyd MPJustice & RightsHealthCommittee: pass

Disaster Management and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Caravan and motorhome owners must install a photoelectric smoke alarm by 1 January 2027 or face a penalty of up to 5 penalty unitsClause 54 (new s 104RQ)All registered caravans and motorised caravans in Queensland must have a compliant photoelectric smoke alarm installed on the ceiling.
•Queensland's disaster management coordination is strengthened with a new State Recovery Policy and Planning Coordinator to oversee recovery after disastersClause 8 (new s 21CA)The CEO of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority is designated as the State Recovery Policy and Planning Coordinator to lead recovery planning and coordination.
•The Queensland Disaster Management Committee's role as the state's strategic leadership body during disasters is formally recognised in lawClause 6 (amended s 18)A new function is inserted providing that the QDMC is to provide strategic leadership for disaster management and disaster operations for the State.
•False alarm offences now cover hazardous materials emergencies as well as fires, with penalties of up to 100 penalty units or one year imprisonmentClause 65 (amended s 150B)The false calls offence is expanded to include false alarms of hazardous materials emergencies in addition to false alarms of fire.

7/3/2024· Hon N Boyd MPGovernment & ElectionsRegional QueenslandCommittee: pass (dissent)

Victims' Commissioner and Sexual Violence Review Board Bill 2024

PassedThis bill became law.

•Victims of domestic and family violence get targeted attention, with the Commissioner required to have particular regard to their vulnerabilityClause 11The Commissioner must have regard to the vulnerability of victims of sexual violence or domestic violence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims, and other particularly vulnerable groups.
•The Sexual Violence Review Board must include at least one person with lived experience as a victim and at least one Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander memberClause 69(5)The Minister must ensure the Board includes a victim of sexual violence, an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, and reflects the community's diversity.
•The Commissioner and Board can compel police and other agencies to hand over information needed to investigate systemic failures in protecting victimsClauses 29 and 86Prescribed entities must comply with information requests, including confidential information, with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units for non-compliance.

6/3/2024· Hon L Linard MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Corrective Services (Promoting Safety) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Prisoners can no longer use phone systems to harass, threaten, or breach domestic violence orders against victims in the communityClause 41 (new ss 50–52C)Strengthens the framework for approving and revoking prisoner phone contacts, defines prohibited prisoner communication, and allows calls to be ended immediately.
•Corrective services officers can now use body-worn cameras when escorting prisoners or responding to incidents in the communityClause 43 (new s 173B)Authorises body-worn camera use outside facilities with safeguards for sensitive locations and privileged communications.
•Possessing a gel blaster or inoperable firearm on corrective services land is now an offence carrying up to two years' imprisonmentClause 7 (new s 124B)Creates a new offence for possession of a restricted item on corrective services land, with exceptions for approved possession and law enforcement.
•Police gain powers to enter premises and inspect devices of dangerous child sex offenders on post-sentence supervision, closing a gap in monitoringClauses 50–51 and 57Extends existing police powers under the CPOROPOA and PPRA to reportable offenders supervised under the Dangerous Prisoners (Sexual Offenders) Act 2003.

13/2/2024· Hon N Boyd MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Summary Offences (Prevention of Knife Crime) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Weapons with violent marketing — such as 'zombie knives' with imagery of blood, skulls, or words like 'killer' — can no longer be sold in QueenslandClause 6, s 19MFeatures of a controlled item must not indicate or suggest the item is suitable for combat or intended to be used for violence.
•Dangerous items like daggers, swords, and machetes must be locked away or tethered in shops so they cannot be accessed without staff assistanceClause 6, s 19LCommercial seller must ensure the controlled item is securely stored at all times except when a person is in physical possession of the item.
•Gel Blasters that look like real firearms are classified as controlled items and cannot be sold to minorsClause 6, s 19EControlled item includes a restricted item under the Weapons Act 1990, section 67 that is a replica of a firearm.

29/11/2023· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Emergency Services Reform Amendment Bill 2023

PassedThis bill became law.

•A new State Disaster Management Group chaired by the Premier can be convened at short notice to coordinate responses to emerging disastersClause 4 (new sections 21F–21K)Establishes the SDM group to provide timely strategic oversight of, and support for, disaster management and disaster operations for the State.
•Marine rescue volunteers across Queensland will be brought together under one organisation, Marine Rescue Queensland, for better coordination on the waterPart 5, Clause 24The QPS Commissioner becomes responsible for the administration of Marine Rescue Queensland under the Marine Rescue Queensland Act 2023.
•SES and marine rescue volunteers keep their workers' compensation coverage for injuries sustained during emergencies and trainingPart 6, Clauses 35–36WorkCover may enter into insurance contracts covering MRQ and SES volunteers for injuries sustained while performing authorised functions, including training.
•Marine rescue volunteers are now recognised as first responders for presumptive PTSD workers' compensation claimsSchedule 1 (Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Regulation 2014)Adds members of Marine Rescue Queensland to schedule 6A 'First responders' of the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Regulation 2014.

28/11/2023· Hon M Ryan MPGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass (dissent)

State Emergency Service Bill 2023

PassedThis bill became law.

•The SES gains a clearer legal framework for responding to floods, storms, and other emergencies across QueenslandClause 7SES functions formally expanded to include rescue operations, search operations, severe weather response, disaster resilience, and community preparation activities.
•Authorised rescue officers can enter properties without a warrant to rescue trapped or endangered people during emergenciesClauses 35-36Officers may take reasonable steps including entering places, removing things, and directing people to leave dangerous areas.
•Assaulting or obstructing SES members during emergencies is an offence carrying up to 100 penalty units or 6 months jailClause 38Protects SES members and authorised rescue officers performing their duties.
•Impersonating an SES member is now a specific offence with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty unitsClause 41Protects community trust in the SES by preventing people from falsely claiming to be members.

28/11/2023· Hon M Ryan MPGovernment & ElectionsRegional QueenslandCommittee: pass (dissent)

Marine Rescue Queensland Bill 2023

PassedThis bill became law.

•A new statewide marine rescue service means faster, better-coordinated help if you get into trouble on the waterClause 7MRQ's functions include marine search and rescue operations, marine assistance to persons or vessels in difficulty, and supporting other emergency services during disasters.
•Marine rescue volunteers must now be covered by insurance while performing duties or trainingClause 15The Commissioner must enter into a contract of insurance with WorkCover or another entity to insure MRQ volunteers while performing functions or involved in training.
•Assaulting or obstructing a marine rescue member during an operation can result in up to 100 penalty units or 6 months imprisonmentClause 25A person must not assault or obstruct an MRQ member performing an MRQ function. Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units or 6 months imprisonment.
•MRQ members can enter private property without a warrant in dangerous situations, such as securing a drifting vessel threatening a jettyClause 23An MRQ member may enter a place without warrant if performing an MRQ function and reasonably suspecting a dangerous situation exists at or near the place.

28/11/2023· Hon M Ryan MPRegional QueenslandGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Agriculture and Fisheries and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Five dangerous dog breeds are now banned in Queensland — you cannot own a new pit bull terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, or Presa CanarioChapter 4A (Clause 60)Prohibited dogs defined by reference to the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (Cwlth). Existing permitted dogs grandfathered.
•All dogs must now be kept under effective control in public places across Queensland, with penalties up to 600 penalty units or 2 years jail if an uncontrolled dog causes death or grievous bodily harmClauses 25 (sections 192-193)New statewide requirement replaces inconsistent local government rules. Regulated dogs must be leashed; other dogs must be on leash or under voice control in off-leash areas.
•If you encourage a dog to attack someone and it causes death or grievous bodily harm, you could face up to 3 years imprisonmentClause 26 (section 195)Maximum penalty of 700 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment for encouraging a regulated dog to attack causing death or GBH.
•Biosecurity emergency orders can now last up to 42 days, giving authorities more time to respond to disease outbreaks like White Spot Disease without having to repeatedly remake ordersClause 89Maximum duration of biosecurity emergency orders increased from 21 to 42 days, with mandatory revocation when the risk passes.

16/11/2023· Hon M Furner MPEnvironmentRegional QueenslandJustice & RightsBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Bus and public transport operators must now have documented safety management plans identifying hazards and risk controlsClause 38 (new sections 67Z-67ZC)Responsible duty holders must have a safety management plan and ensure it is implemented, with penalties up to 1,000 penalty units for corporations.
•E-scooter riders must stop and provide their details after a crash on a road or footpath, just like car driversClause 58Extends existing crash reporting obligations in section 93 to personal mobility device riders on roads and road-related areas.
•Camera enforcement can be expanded to detect driver distraction from tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices, not just mobile phonesClause 62Amends section 120E to allow regulations to prescribe additional driver distraction offences for camera-detected enforcement.

12/10/2023· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsWork & EmploymentCommittee: pass

Criminal Law (Coercive Control and Affirmative Consent) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Eligible domestic violence offenders can be diverted to approved programs instead of traditional sentencing through a new court-based schemeClause 40 (new Part 4A)Establishes a diversion orders scheme with eligibility criteria, suitability assessments, and approved provider requirements.
•It is now a criminal offence to help a DFV respondent commit domestic violence against the person protected by an orderClause 46 (new s 179A)Creates the offence of engaging in domestic violence or associated domestic violence to aid a respondent.
•Protection orders now include standard conditions about surrendering weapons and prohibiting harm to animals connected to the aggrieved personClauses 48-50Adds standard conditions to domestic violence orders and police protection notices regarding weapons and animal abuse.

11/10/2023· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Victims of Crime Assistance and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Domestic and family violence survivors receive a ninefold increase in special assistance, from $1,000 to $9,000Clause 14(7)Recategorises acts of domestic violence from Category D to Category B in Schedule 2, raising the payment from $1,000 to $9,000.
•Families who lose a loved one to violence can now claim up to $15,000 for funeral costs, nearly double the previous $8,000 capClause 11Amends sections 50(3) and 50(4) to increase funeral expense assistance from $8,000 to $15,000.
•Related victims such as family members can access up to $75,000 in financial assistance, up from $50,000Clause 9Amends section 48(1) to increase the maximum assistance for related victims from $50,000 to $75,000.

10/10/2023· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•People providing financial support to help a pregnant person access a lawful termination will not be committing an offence, clarifying a concern about the existing lawPart 8, Clause 49Amends section 319A of the Criminal Code to clarify that 'procuring the supply' of a termination drug only applies when procured from an unqualified person.
•Community visitors who protect vulnerable adults and children in care face clearer suitability requirements and employment arrangementsPart 27, Clauses 173-184Clarifies interaction between Public Guardian Act and Public Sector Act for community visitors, retaining specific suitability requirements for this sensitive role.

25/5/2023· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Criminal Code (Serious Vilification and Hate Crimes) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Communities historically targeted by extremist ideologies gain protection from the public display of hate symbols that cause fear and distressClause 12 (new s 52C-52D)Symbols representing ideologies of extreme prejudice against groups based on race, religion, sexuality, sex characteristics or gender identity can be banned by regulation.
•Police can search people and vehicles without a warrant if they suspect a prohibited symbols offenceClauses 25-26Amends sections 30 and 32 of the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 to include the new prohibited symbols offence.
•Religious communities using symbols like the swastika for peaceful purposes are protected by reasonable excuse defencesClause 12 (new s 52D(2))Excuses include genuine artistic, religious, educational, historical, legal, law enforcement or public interest purposes.

29/3/2023· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Strengthening Community Safety Bill 2023

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can arrest children on bail for serious offences without first considering alternatives like warnings, responding to community concerns about repeat offendingClauses 15-16Removes mandatory requirement to consider alternatives to arrest for children on bail for prescribed indictable offences or domestic violence offences.
•The serious repeat offender declaration lasts 12 months and binds subsequent courts, aiming to keep persistent young offenders in detention longerClause 21, new s 150BSubsequent courts must give primary regard to community protection when sentencing during the relevant period.
•More offences are added to the 'prescribed indictable offence' list including being a passenger in a stolen car and breaking into premises to commit a crimeClause 41Expands the definition to include section 408A(1) for passengers and section 421(1) entering premises with intent.

21/2/2023· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023

PassedThis bill became law.

•Fire and emergency services workers gain stronger legal protection against assault while on the jobClause 10 (new s 150BA)Creates a standalone offence of assaulting a person performing functions under the Fire and Emergency Services Act, with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units or 6 months imprisonment.
•Tougher penalties for dangerous police evasion aim to reduce high-risk driving incidents that endanger the publicClause 15Aggravated evasion offence targets recidivist offenders and those who evade police at night, with violence, or while armed.

21/2/2023· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsHealthCommittee: pass

Police Powers and Responsibilities (Jack’s Law) Amendment Bill 2022

PassedThis bill became law.

•The original 12-month trial detected 68 bladed weapons and led to 53 weapons offences and 101 other charges in Surfers Paradise and BroadbeachThe Griffith Criminology Institute report found an array of concealed weapons were detected during the trial including knives, an axe, a replica handgun, and knuckle dusters.
•Scanning now covers all 15 safe night precincts statewide, targeting areas where 542 knife possession charges were laid in 2021-22Clause 4, section 39CBetween 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022, 542 persons were charged by police with unlawfully possessing a knife across the 15 SNPs in Queensland.
•Authorisation requires evidence of recent knife offences or violent crimes at the location in the previous 6 monthsClause 4, section 39C(2)A senior police officer may only issue an authority if at least 1 offence involving a knife, a violent offence punishable by 7+ years imprisonment, or multiple weapons offences occurred at the location in the last 6 months.

30/11/2022· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsTransport & RoadsCommittee: pass

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Spectators at hooning events can be fined up to 40 penalty units or face 1 year's imprisonmentClause 34 (new section 19C)Offence for willingly participating in a group activity involving a motor vehicle being used to commit a hooning offence.
•Organising, promoting, or filming hooning for social media is now a criminal offenceClause 34 (new section 19C)Covers organising, promoting, encouraging participation, and filming/photographing for the purpose of promoting hooning.
•Doing burnouts in car parks and public places is a specific offence, even when no noise or smoke is producedClause 37 (new section 85A)Offence for wilfully causing sustained loss of traction on a road or in a public place, maximum penalty 20 penalty units.
•Possessing stolen or unmatched number plates at car meets can result in prosecutionClause 34 (new section 19D)Offence for possessing things used in commission of hooning offences, maximum 40 penalty units or 1 year's imprisonment.

30/11/2022· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsTechnology & DigitalCommittee: pass

Corrective Services (Emerging Technologies and Security) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022

PassedThis bill became law.

•Correctional facilities now have a comprehensive emergency framework for responding to natural disasters, pandemics and security threatsClause 28 (new Division 3, s 271A-271D)Replaces the existing short-term emergency declaration with a framework covering different emergency types with varying timeframes (3 to 21 days).
•Youth detention centres can be temporarily relocated during disasters, with safeguards for children's rights and community impactClause 48 (new Part 9A, Division 4)Enables the chief executive to declare a temporary youth detention centre for up to 21 days, with ministerial approval and mandatory consideration of human rights.
•Flying a drone over a prison or youth detention centre is now a criminal offence with penalties up to 100 penalty units or 2 years jailClause 15 (new s 132A) and Clause 46 (new s 279A)Addresses the growing threat of drones being used for contraband delivery, surveillance of secure infrastructure, or as weapons at custodial facilities.

29/11/2022· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsTechnology & DigitalCommittee: pass

Police Service Administration and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2022

PassedThis bill became law.

•Fire officers can now use drones and robots to inspect dangerous premises before entering in personClause 19 (new s 55(4))An authorised fire officer's power to enter premises or open a receptacle may be exercised using a device remotely controlled by the officer or a qualified person under their supervision.
•Building occupiers must maintain fire safety installations outside their building, such as external fire hydrants, to the same safety standard as internal onesClause 21Expands the definition of 'prescribed fire safety installation' to include installations required for the building, not just those located inside it.
•Information about fires and hazmat emergencies involving deaths can now be shared between QFES and police, implementing a Coroner's recommendationClause 23 (new s 153A(4))Provides clear authority for QFES officers to disclose investigation information to QPS when a fire or hazmat emergency involves death or serious injury.
•Impersonating a Rural Fire Brigade member is now a criminal offence, with higher penalties during a state of fire emergencyClause 16Maximum penalty of 250 penalty units or 1 year imprisonment during a state of fire emergency, or 100 penalty units in other circumstances.

27/10/2022· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Child Protection (Offender Reporting and Offender Prohibition Order) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Queensland's child protection register information can now be shared with federal agencies to help disrupt international child exploitationClause 32 (s 71)Extends information sharing to the Australian Border Force Commissioner, Secretary of Home Affairs, and Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police.
•Overseas child sex offender registries are now recognised, meaning offenders relocating to Queensland from overseas must comply with reporting obligationsClause 44 (Regulation s 3(h))Includes persons required to report to a corresponding registrar in a jurisdiction outside Australia as corresponding reportable offenders.
•Police must report annually to Parliament on how device inspection and production powers are being usedClause 51 (s 808A PPRA)Extends the annual report to include information about requirements to produce digital devices under s 21B(2).

26/10/2022· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Domestic and Family Violence Protection (Combating Coercive Control) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Courts must now see a respondent's full domestic violence history before making protection orders, helping them properly assess the risk to victimsClauses 35-36Police commissioner must ensure a copy of the respondent's criminal history and domestic violence history is filed with the court for all protection order applications.
•Victims can now be protected by domestic violence orders served through alternative methods when a respondent is deliberately avoiding serviceClause 53New section 184A allows substituted service where reasonable attempts at personal service have failed and alternative service is necessary to protect the aggrieved.

14/10/2022· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Transport Legislation (Road Safety and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2022

PassedThis bill became law.

•Road safety infrastructure funding can now be directed proactively to high-risk roads before serious crashes occur, not just afterPart 5, Clause 15 (s 117(1)(b))Funding prioritised using risk assessment methodology to maximise reduction in frequency and severity of road crashes.
•Prosecuting illegal vehicle modifications and excessive exhaust noise becomes easier with streamlined evidence rulesPart 5, Clause 19 (s 123SA)Manufacturer documents, compliance plates, and Commonwealth register extracts admissible without calling interstate witnesses.
•Health professionals can report concerns about medically unfit interstate drivers without fear of legal actionPart 5, Clause 23 (s 142)Extends civil liability and administrative process protections to health professionals reporting on non-Queensland licence holders' fitness to drive.

26/5/2022· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsHealthCommittee: pass

Public Health and Other Legislation (Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2022

PassedThis bill became law.

•Visitors to prisons and correctional facilities could be temperature-screened and turned away if showing COVID-19 symptomsClause 8New section 351D authorises screening for COVID-19, including temperature checks, and refusal of entry if a person has symptoms or temperature above 37.5°C.
•Emergency declarations could cover all corrective services facilities (including work camps) for up to 90 daysClause 7Modifies section 268 to expand emergency declarations from prisons to all corrective services facilities and extends duration from 3 to 90 days.
•Disaster management powers like road closures could continue, with declarations extended for up to 90 days instead of 14Clause 17Extends part 12A of the Disaster Management Act allowing declared COVID-19 disaster situations to be extended by regulation for up to 90 days.

22/2/2022· Hon Y D'Ath MPHealthJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Evidence and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•DFV victims are better protected from intimidation, as their evidence can be recorded close to the time of the incident rather than months later in courtClause 37 (new s 103E)Recorded statements must be made as soon as practicable after the alleged domestic violence offence and taken by a trained police officer.
•Strict privacy safeguards prevent accused persons from obtaining copies of victim recordings, reducing the risk of misuseClause 21 (new s 590AOB)The prosecution must not give the accused a copy of the recorded statement; unrepresented defendants may only view it at a stated place.

16/11/2021· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Police Service Administration and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

PassedThis bill became law.

•Security screening at government buildings is standardised so PSOs and police follow the same process when checking entrants and their belongingsClause 4 (new ss 551-553)PSOs may ask entrants to walk through detectors, pass belongings through X-ray machines, and allow hand-held scanners, with safeguards to protect dignity.
•PSOs can now direct trespassers and disorderly people to leave government buildings for up to 24 hoursClause 4 (new s 554)Directions may require a person to leave and not return for up to 24 hours. Officers must give reasons and the direction must be reasonably necessary for building security.
•Body-worn cameras are authorised for protective services officers, improving evidence collection and accountabilityClause 5Amends s 609A of the PPRA to include PSOs, providing a lawful authority exemption under the Invasion of Privacy Act 1971.
•All uses of security powers by PSOs must be recorded in a register, making enforcement actions trackable and accountableClauses 13-14Register must record details including when, where, who, and why for directions, removals, and detentions at state buildings.

16/11/2021· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Police Legislation (Efficiencies and Effectiveness) Amendment Bill 2021

PassedThis bill became law.

•Police officers involved in critical incidents are now drug tested using faster saliva tests instead of waiting hours for urine testing staff to arrivePart 4, Clauses 17-24Introduces saliva testing as an alternative to urine testing, with saliva detecting substance use within hours rather than days or weeks.
•The definition of 'critical incident' is broadened so mandatory drug and alcohol testing now covers any police operation resulting in death or grievous bodily harmClause 17Expands the definition to include deaths in the course of police operations (aligning with the Coroners Act) and incidents causing grievous bodily harm.
•Interstate police officers helping with terrorism, disasters, or major events in Queensland can now be authorised to use the full range of Queensland police powersClauses 15-16Amends ss 5.16 and 5.17 of the PSAA to allow the Commissioner to authorise special constables and non-State police officers to exercise powers under any Queensland Act.

16/9/2021· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•People making advance health directives can have a nurse practitioner certify their capacity, not just a doctor, making it easier to plan for future health decisionsPart 7, Clause 47Amends Powers of Attorney Act 1998 to allow nurse practitioners to sign capacity certificates for advance health directives.
•DFV victims in urgent situations have faster access to temporary protection orders without needing to first locate a JP or commissioner for declarationsPart 3, Clauses 6-12Alternative verification pathways allow urgent applications to proceed without statutory declaration when applicants cannot access witnessing services.

15/9/2021· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsBusiness & Economy

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

PassedThis bill became law.

•People caught carrying a knife in a safe night precinct, licensed premises, or public event where alcohol is sold can be banned from the area for up to one monthClause 38Amends s 602C of the PPRA to include unlawful knife possession as grounds for a police banning notice in relevant public places.
•Queensland Police can now participate in the national drug profiling program to help track and disrupt drug supply networksClause 40Amends s 707 to allow the Commissioner to dispose of forfeited drugs to the AFP or interstate police for the ENIPID intelligence program.
•Civilian QPS staff and translators can now monitor surveillance devices without a police officer present, improving the efficiency of serious crime investigationsClause 44Amends PPRR sch 9, s 14 to define authorised monitors who can use monitoring equipment without constant police supervision.

15/9/2021· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Public Health and Other Legislation (Further Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2021

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•The declared disaster situation under the Disaster Management Act could continue to be extended for up to 90 days at a time instead of 14Part 12A, Disaster Management Act 2003Extends amendments increasing the extension period for a declared disaster situation from 14 to 90 days.
•Corrective services facilities (including work camps) could continue to declare emergencies to manage COVID-19 outbreaks among prisonersPart 15A, Corrective Services Act 2006Extends the chief executive's emergency declaration power from prisons to all corrective services facilities.

16/6/2021· Hon Y D'Ath MPHealthBusiness & EconomyHousing & RentingGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass (dissent)

COVID-19 Emergency Response and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

PassedThis bill became law.

•Health safety measures are built into local government elections, including the ability to run entirely postal ballots to avoid crowded polling boothsClause 28 (s 200T)The Minister may direct that a poll be conducted by postal ballot if satisfied it is in the public interest to minimise health risks.
•Electoral visitor voting can be suspended if visiting electors poses a health risk to issuing officersClause 28 (s 200W)The ECQ may declare electoral visitor voting unavailable and must make alternative arrangements for affected electors.
•Candidates and scrutineers face penalties for ignoring health safety directions at polling booths, with fines up to 20 penalty unitsClause 28 (ss 200ZA-200ZB)The ECQ can direct limits on scrutineer numbers and movement at polling booths to reduce COVID-19 transmission risks.

11/3/2021· Hon S Fentiman MPGovernment & ElectionsHousing & RentingCommittee: pass

Youth Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can scan people for knives using hand-held metal detectors in the Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach entertainment precinctsClause 6 (new ss 39A-39H)A senior police officer may authorise scanning in prescribed safe night precincts for 12-hour periods, with a two-year sunset clause.
•If you refuse to be scanned for knives in a safe night precinct, police can search you without a warrantClause 5 (s 30(1)(l))Adds failure to comply with a scanning requirement as a prescribed circumstance for searching a person without a warrant.
•Hooning offence investigation powers are strengthened so police can better identify dangerous drivers through vehicle owner declarationsClauses 7-17 (ch 22 amendments)Expands existing evasion offence notice provisions to all type 1 vehicle related offences including dangerous driving, street racing, and burnouts.

25/2/2021· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Public Health and Other Legislation (Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2020

PassedThis bill became law.

•The government could keep extending the declared public health emergency for up to 90 days at a time to respond quickly to outbreaksClause 10Re-instated the 90-day extension power for declared public health emergencies under section 323 of the Public Health Act 2005.
•Emergency powers automatically expired on 1 October 2021, reverting to stricter limits of 14-day initial and 7-day further extensionsClause 13Acts as a sunset clause so that from 1 October 2021 the Public Health Act reverts to requiring Governor in Council approval every 7 days for further extensions.
•Emergency officers kept their expanded powers to issue directions to limit or respond to the spread of COVID-19 in QueenslandPart 5 (Clauses 14-16)Extended the commencement of expiry provisions in the Public Health and Other Legislation (Public Health Emergency) Amendment Act 2020 to 1 October 2021.

3/12/2020· Hon Y D'Ath MPHealthCommittee: pass (dissent)

Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2020

FAKE_OLD_STATUS

•Emergency service volunteers including SES members, rural fire brigade members and volunteer firefighters are covered alongside paid first respondersClause 9, Schedule 6A items 5-7Covers members of the State Emergency Service, rural fire brigades, and volunteer firefighters or fire wardens under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990.
•Support staff who handle emergency communications or monitor traumatic incidents via CCTV gain presumptive PTSD coverage as eligible employeesClause 3, new s 36ECCovers employees whose work requires repeated or extreme exposure to graphic details of traumatic incidents, including those experiencing incidents as they happen to others.

26/11/2020· Hon G Grace MPWork & EmploymentHealthCommittee: pass

Criminal Code (Consent and Mistake of Fact) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2020

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can now ban disorderly or violent people from entertainment precincts for up to one month, up from 10 daysClause 50 (new s 602D)An initial police banning notice continues in effect until the end of the day stated in the notice that is no more than 1 month after the day the notice takes effect.
•Licensee bans at venues are automatically cleared when a venue changes hands, preventing people being permanently banned without reviewClause 43 (new s 173EJ(6A)-(6C))The approved operator must remove details of licensee bans as soon as practicable after the 30-day transfer period ends, unless the new licensee requests they remain.
•Safe night precincts must be reviewed every three years to check they are still achieving their purposesClause 44 (new s 173NCAA)A further review of a safe night precinct must be started no later than 3 years after the previous review is completed.
•Door staff at licensed venues, not just licensees, are now personally responsible for ensuring ID scanning complianceClause 32 (new s 173EH(2))A staff member responsible for controlling an entry to the premises must ensure ID scanning entry requirements are complied with. Maximum penalty 10 penalty units.

26/11/2020· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsHealthCommittee: pass

COVID-19 Emergency Response and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2020

PassedThis bill became law.

•Temporary detention centre employees, including police officers, can be given delegated powers to run youth detention centres safely during COVID-19 outbreaksPart 2, Division 7, Clause 36 (new s 264A(7A))The chief executive may delegate powers under the Youth Justice Act to appropriately qualified temporary detention centre employees.
•COVID-19 public health emergency powers across corrections, health, disaster management, and other areas are extended to 30 April 2021Part 2, Division 8, Clause 37Extends the operation of emergency provisions in the Corrective Services Act, Public Health Act, Disaster Management Act, Mental Health Act, and other legislation.

26/11/2020· Hon S Fentiman MPGovernment & ElectionsBusiness & EconomyJustice & RightsHousing & Renting

56th Parliament (2017–2020)22 bills

Justice and Other Legislation (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Amendment Bill 2020

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Disaster situation declarations for COVID-19 could be extended by up to 90 days at a time, instead of the usual 14 daysClause 23 (s 138)Applied specifically to the disaster situation declared on 22 March 2020, enabling longer-term emergency powers without repeated renewals.
•Emergency declarations could apply to all corrective services facilities, not just prisons, to manage COVID-19 outbreaksClause 11 (s 351C)Expanded the chief executive's power under section 268 of the Corrective Services Act 2006, subject to the Minister's approval.

19/5/2020· Hon S Miles MPHealthBusiness & EconomyJustice & RightsWork & Employment

Appropriation (COVID-19) Bill 2020

PassedThis bill became law.

•Emergency funding enabled the Queensland Government's COVID-19 relief package to protect jobs, support businesses, and safeguard communities during the pandemicClauses 2-3The COVID-19 crisis is causing unprecedented economic and fiscal challenges. To protect jobs and safeguard our economy, the Queensland Government has announced a COVID-19 relief package.
•Additional supply for 2020-21 ensured the government could continue meeting its COVID-19 commitments beyond the current financial yearClause 3Additional supply is sought in 2020-21 to ensure the Government can meet its COVID-19 related commitments.

22/4/2020· Hon J Trad MPGovernment & Elections

Public Health and Other Legislation (Public Health Emergency) Amendment Bill 2020

PassedThis bill became law.

•On-the-spot fines of $1,334.50 for individuals who breached public health directions, enforced by police and emergency officersClause 49Penalty infringement notices of 10 penalty units for individuals and 50 penalty units for corporations for failing to comply with emergency directions.
•Emergency officers could use reasonable force to enforce public health directions if a person refused to complyClause 36, s 362LAn emergency officer may, with necessary and reasonable force, take action to enforce the requirement or direction.
•Aged care facilities and other venues could be directed to restrict visitor access to protect vulnerable residentsClause 36, s 362IAn emergency officer may direct the owner or operator of a business to open, close, or limit access to a facility.

18/3/2020· Hon S Miles MPHealthGovernment & Elections

Corrective Services and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2020

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•You can permanently surrender an unregistered firearm to a police station or approved dealer without being prosecutedClause 63 (new s 168B)Creates a permanent firearms amnesty replacing the previous temporary amnesty declaration system.
•Gel blaster club members can legally possess replica firearms for recreational use, as long as activities are not in a public placeClause 62 (new s 67(3A))Clarifies 'reasonable excuse' for possession includes membership of a recreational association using replicas.
•Prison staff are now subject to random drug and alcohol testing to reduce corruption risks in correctional facilitiesClause 48 (new Part 9A)Introduces comprehensive alcohol and drug testing regime for corrective services officers and recruits.
•Assaulting a corrective services officer now carries up to 14 years imprisonment in aggravated circumstancesClause 55Amends Criminal Code s 340 to provide 14 years for aggravated assaults (spitting, bodily harm, armed) and 7 years otherwise.

17/3/2020· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Public Health (Declared Public Health Emergencies) Amendment Bill 2020

PassedThis bill became law.

•Emergency declarations can now run for up to 90 continuous days, giving the community more certainty about how long emergency arrangements will lastClause 4Replaces the requirement for weekly regulation renewals with a single regulation extending the emergency for up to 90 days.
•The extended emergency powers are temporary — they automatically expire 12 months after commencement through a built-in sunset clauseClause 5Part 3 commences 1 year after assent, reverting section 323 to a 14-day initial extension and 7-day further extensions.
•Emergency officers can enter premises, restrict movement, and direct people to stay in or leave places during a declared public health emergency, with penalties of up to 100 penalty units for non-complianceChapter 8, Public Health Act 2005Emergency officers (general) have wide ranging powers under chapter 8 including powers of entry and powers to compel persons to do or refrain from certain activities.

4/2/2020· Hon S Miles MPHealth

Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•The dangerous prisoners scheme is fixed to cover all sexual offenders who pose a risk, including those returned to custody on suspended paroleClauses 62-65 (Part 13)Corrects an anomaly in the Dangerous Prisoners (Sexual Offenders) Act 2003 so it applies to prisoners on parole suspensions and those serving detention in corrective services facilities.
•Magistrates can now act against premises where criminal activity poses a risk to public safety, broadening the restricted premises schemeClause 158 (Part 26)Amends the Peace and Good Behaviour Act 1982 definition of 'disorderly activity' to include criminal activity likely to pose a risk to the safety of a member of the public.
•Old coronial inquests from before 2003 can now be reopened under modern laws, helping families get answers about unexplained deathsClauses 39-41 (Part 7)Extends the Coroners Act 2003 to allow unfinished or finished inquests under the repealed 1958 Act to be stopped and reopened under the current Act.

28/11/2019· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Criminal Code (Child Sexual Offences Reform) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019

PassedThis bill became law.

•Religious clergy cannot use the seal of confession to avoid reporting child sexual abuse — the new reporting obligations apply to information from confessionsClause 25, sections 229BB(2) and 229BC(3)Both the failure to protect and failure to report offences apply to information or knowledge gained during, or in connection with, a religious confession.
•Courts can no longer treat an offender's previous good character as a reason for a lighter sentence when that good character helped them abuse childrenClause 53, new section 9(6A)The court must not have regard to the offender's good character if it assisted the offender in committing the offence.

27/11/2019· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Summary Offences and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Emergency workers are better protected from injury when responding to protest devices designed to resist safe removalClause 11, new s 14BDefines dangerous attachment devices including sleeping dragons, dragon's dens, monopoles, and tripods that pose injury risks during extraction.
•Police can seize and destroy dangerous attachment devices on the spot before they are deployedClause 5, new s 53AAPolice may deactivate, disassemble, or seize dangerous attachment devices, with seized items automatically forfeited to the State.
•Reduced risk of transport disruptions that could delay ambulances, fire services, and police responding to emergenciesClause 11, new s 14C(1)Targets dangerous attachment devices that unreasonably interfere with the ordinary operation of transport infrastructure.

19/9/2019· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•DFV victims are safer as police can now search respondents for concealed weapons before transportClause 16Inserts new subsections 134A(4A)-(4C) into the DFVPA allowing search for anything that may cause harm.
•Civilian QPS staff can now share domestic violence information between agencies, speeding up urgent responsesClause 17Amends section 169H(3)(b) of the DFVPA to allow staff members of the QPS, not just police officers, to share information under Part 5A.
•Armourers must verify a person holds the right licence before modifying a firearm into a higher category, with a penalty of 100 penalty units for non-complianceClause 79New section 70A requires licensed armourers to sight the person's licence and confirm authorisation for the new weapons category.
•Owners of low-value impounded vehicles can voluntarily transfer them to the State instead of accumulating storage feesClause 25Replaces section 119 to apply to all motor vehicles impounded under Chapter 4, not just motorbikes.

18/9/2019· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Medicines and Poisons Bill 2019

PassedThis bill became law.

•Real-time prescription monitoring aims to prevent opioid misuse and doctor-shopping by flagging patients receiving controlled drugs from multiple prescribersChapter 2, Part 2 (Clauses 38-41)The monitored medicines database tracks prescribing and dispensing of S8 medicines to identify potential misuse or diversion.
•Inspectors gain modern powers to enter premises, seize substances and issue recall orders to keep unsafe products off the marketChapter 5 (Clauses 129-195)Inspectors can enter places with or without consent or warrant in certain circumstances, seize things, and the chief executive can issue recall orders for unsafe substances.

14/5/2019· Hon S Miles MPHealthBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass (dissent)

Weapons and Other Legislation (Firearms Offences) Amendment Bill 2019

Lapsed

•A new offence would target drive-by shootings, with 14 years imprisonment for firing at homes, buildings or vehicles and 16 years during public disorder or organised crimeClause 12 (new s 57A)Prosecution would not need to prove a person was actually placed in danger by the firing of the firearm.
•Penalties for carrying a loaded firearm in a public place would jump from 2 years to 10 years imprisonmentClause 11 (amendment of s 57)Also increases penalty for discharging a weapon in, into, towards, over or through a public place from 4 years to 10 years.
•People subject to a Firearm Prohibition Order would be banned from gun shops, shooting ranges, arms fairs and shooting club premisesClause 14 (new s 141D(8))Maximum penalty of 500 penalty units or 10 years imprisonment. Membership of a shooting club is not a reasonable excuse.
•The penalty for stealing a firearm or ammunition would increase from 10 to 14 years imprisonmentClause 4 (amendment of s 398)Amends the Criminal Code's special punishment provisions for stealing firearms or ammunition.

1/5/2019· Mr T WattsJustice & RightsCommittee: not recommended

Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2019

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•A clearer three-tier vehicle defect notice system helps get dangerous trucks off the road faster — major defects for imminent risks, minor defects for other risks, and self-clearing notices for non-safety issuesClause 24Amends section 526 to define when each type of notice applies based on the level of safety risk posed by the vehicle.
•Using a heavy vehicle in breach of a major or minor defect notice carries a maximum penalty of $6,000, while breaching a self-clearing notice carries a $3,000 penaltyClause 26Amends section 529 to differentiate penalties based on the severity of the defect notice.
•Vehicles with self-clearing defect notices can get written permission to drive to a repair location, keeping defective vehicles moving safely to get fixedClause 27Inserts new section 529AA allowing authorised officers to permit use of a vehicle subject to a self-clearing defect notice for the purpose of driving to and from a repair location.

2/4/2019· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Transport Legislation (Road Safety and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2019

PassedThis bill became law.

•Drink drivers who fail breath tests on their interlock device in the final four months have their interlock period automatically extendedClause 100, section 91VAThe prescribed period extends until the participant completes four consecutive months without a failed breath test or servicing failure.
•Repeat drink driving offenders within five years must complete a face-to-face education program before having their interlock removedClause 89, section 91FThe Repeat Offender Education Program teaches participants about their alcohol consumption and strategies for separating drinking from driving.

13/2/2019· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsJustice & RightsEnvironmentCommittee: pass

Justice Legislation (Links to Terrorist Activity) Amendment Bill 2018

PassedThis bill became law.

•The parole board can now request police intelligence reports about a prisoner's terrorism links, including information from ASIO and border protection agenciesClause 13 (new ss 193D-193E)The commissioner must provide reports on terrorism convictions, control orders, promotion of terrorism, likelihood of carrying out a terrorist act, and terrorist associations.
•Parole orders can be immediately suspended if there is a reasonable belief the prisoner poses a risk of carrying out a terrorist actClauses 14-16 (amended ss 205, 208A, 208B)The parole board, a prescribed board member, or the chief executive can suspend or cancel a parole order based on terrorism risk.
•Children released from detention with terrorism links must have conditions imposed to reduce the risk of terrorist activity, such as curfews and communication bansClause 32 (new s 228A)The chief executive must impose conditions reasonably necessary and appropriate to reduce the risk of the child carrying out a terrorist act or promoting terrorism.

13/11/2018· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Economic Development and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•The Queensland Reconstruction Authority can now help communities prepare for all types of natural disasters, not just floodsClauses 200-203QRA's functions expanded from flood-only recovery to all natural hazards including cyclones, storms and bushfires.
•QRA can now fund and coordinate disaster resilience programs before a disaster hits, not just afterwardsClause 203, section 10(1)(i)New function to plan for, coordinate and put in place measures to improve community resilience for potential disasters.
•A new best-practice flood warning gauge network can be developed to give communities earlier warningsClause 203, section 10(1)(h)New function to facilitate mitigating against potential disasters, including facilitating a network of flood warning gauges.

19/9/2018· Hon C Dick MPBusiness & EconomyGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Protecting Queenslanders from Violent and Child Sex Offenders Amendment Bill 2018

Lapsed

•Community safety would become the paramount consideration in all decisions about dangerous sex offenders, replacing the previous 'adequate protection' standardClauses 3–4, s 3AAn entity making a decision under this Act must give paramount consideration to the safety and protection of the community.
•Repeat sex offenders would be banned from living within 1km of schools, parks, and shopping centres, and from being within 200m of any schoolClause 10, s 43AL(1)(b)Must not be within 200m of a school and must not live within 1km of a place where children are regularly present.
•The Governor in Council would review each supervision order after five years, then annually, with mandatory psychiatric assessmentsClause 8, ss 19B–19EThe released prisoner must be examined by 2 psychiatrists for each review.

19/9/2018· Mr D Janetzki MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: not recommended

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•If a loved one goes missing and is at serious risk, police can now search homes and other places under warrant to find them fasterClause 27 (new Part 3A)New missing person scene scheme allows police to search places for high-risk missing persons under warrant from a Supreme Court judge or magistrate.
•Civilian watch-house officers are better protected with a new offence for assaulting or obstructing them, carrying up to 40 penalty units or 6 months imprisonmentClause 33 (new s 655A)New simple offence for assaulting or obstructing a civilian watch-house officer in the performance of their duties.
•Police can search people detained for a breach of the peace before transporting them, improving safety for both officers and the person detainedClause 30 (s 442)Extends search powers to persons detained under section 50 for a breach of the peace who are to be transported.

12/6/2018· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2018

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Enforcement officers can now immediately shut down dangerous heavy vehicle operations by issuing a prohibition noticeClause 25 (new s576A)An authorised officer can prohibit an activity involving a heavy vehicle that poses an immediate or imminent serious risk to health or safety.
•Officers can require an entire fleet of heavy vehicles to be inspected if they suspect the vehicles are defective or non-compliantClause 20 (new s522(1A))Expands existing power from individual vehicles to categories of heavy vehicles believed to be non-compliant or defective.
•Non-compliance with a prohibition notice carries a $10,000 penalty and executive officers of companies can also be prosecutedClause 25 (new s576C) and Clause 38
•Courts can now issue injunctions requiring convicted offenders to stop breaching heavy vehicle safety lawsClause 28 (new s596A)

1/5/2018· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Safer Waterways Bill 2018

DefeatedThis bill was defeated at the second reading — the main debate on its principles. It cannot proceed further.

•Dangerous crocodiles in urban areas and popular swimming spots would have been killed or relocated within 48 hoursPart 8, Clause 27(2)(d)If the authority becomes aware of a rogue crocodile, action must be taken by the director to manage any risk within 48 hours.
•Crocodiles threatening people, livestock or pets on rural properties could have been killed by authorised landholdersClause 11(1)(h)The director may authorise the owner of indigenous land, State leasehold land or other non-State land to kill crocodiles or allow others to kill crocodiles on their land.
•A new authority would have been dedicated solely to reducing crocodile-related injuries and deathsClause 11(1)(a)The director's primary function is to take measures to minimise injuries and deaths caused by crocodiles in the State.

21/3/2018· Mr S Knuth MPRegional QueenslandEnvironmentCommittee: not recommended

Police and Other Legislation (Identity and Biometric Capability) Amendment Bill 2018

PassedThis bill became law.

•Law enforcement can now use facial recognition to identify missing persons, deceased individuals, and people at risk of harm across all Australian jurisdictionsClause 17, section 10.2FF(2)(e)Permitted purposes include identifying individuals who are at risk of, or have experienced, physical harm, including missing persons and disaster event identification.
•The offence for making homemade explosives in dangerous circumstances now carries up to 7 years jail, up from 2 yearsClause 5Replaces section 470A to cover making or possessing explosives and reclassifies the offence from a misdemeanour to a crime.
•During the 2018 Commonwealth Games, police could recommend immediate restrictions on Gold Coast venues if alcohol-related violence threatened public safetyClause 9, sections 235G-235HLiquor Commissioner could revoke trading authority, reduce hours, impose conditions, or suspend licences on police recommendation without QCAT review.

15/2/2018· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsTechnology & DigitalCommittee: pass

Heavy Vehicle National Law and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police in remote areas can now conduct roadside drug tests without waiting for a second officer, making drug driving enforcement more practical across QueenslandClause 48Removes section 80(8J) of TORUM Act which required a different officer to operate the saliva analysing instrument from the officer who conducted the roadside test.
•Drivers involved in a crash must stop and provide their details to other parties and police within 24 hours, with all obligations now clearly set out in one placeClause 52 (new section 93)Consolidates crash duties from the Road Rules Regulation into the TORUM Act. Drivers must give name, address, owner details and registration number.

15/2/2018· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsWork & EmploymentCommittee: pass

Land, Explosives and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•People working with explosives must now hold a security clearance, with checks on criminal history, domestic violence orders, and mental healthPart 4, Clause 24 (new Division 1AA)New security clearance framework requires background checks before anyone can access security sensitive explosives.
•Anyone subject to a domestic violence order automatically loses their explosives licence and security clearanceClause 38 (new sections 25A and 25B)Immediate suspension for temporary protection orders and police protection notices; immediate cancellation for protection orders.
•Dangerous buildings and structures on State land can now be ordered to be repaired, fenced off, or demolished to protect public safetyClause 205 (new section 403G)Chief executive may give safety notices for buildings, structures or equipment on non-freehold land that pose a serious risk to public safety.
•A new explosives driver licence is required for anyone driving a vehicle transporting explosivesClause 100 (new section 31A of Explosives Regulation)Separates the business licence to transport explosives from the individual driver authorisation.

15/2/2018· Hon A Lynham MPFirst NationsEnvironmentBusiness & EconomyHousing & RentingCommittee: pass

55th Parliament (2015–2017)35 bills

Land, Explosives and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

Lapsed

•Anyone accessing security-sensitive explosives must hold a new 5-year security clearanceClause 24 (new Division 1AA)New sections 12A-12F require individuals to apply for a security clearance assessed against criminal history, mental health and domestic violence history.
•If you are named as the respondent to a domestic violence order, your explosives licence or security clearance is automatically suspended or cancelledClause 38 (new sections 25A, 25B)Temporary protection orders trigger automatic suspension; protection orders trigger automatic cancellation from the time the order is made.
•Dangerous buildings, jetties and structures on state land can now be quickly ordered repaired, fenced off or demolishedNew section 403D (Land Act)Safety notices may be issued where the chief executive reasonably believes a building, structure or equipment on non-freehold land is dangerous and poses a serious risk to public safety.
•Gas plant safety reporting becomes real-time instead of relying on an annual reportNew section 694A (P&G Act)Executive safety manager must provide information notices within 10 business days of any change to key statutory position holders.

10/10/2017· Hon Dr A Lynham MPFirst NationsEnvironmentHousing & RentingBusiness & Economy

Plumbing and Drainage Bill 2017

Lapsed

•Work on medical gas systems in hospitals and clinics must now be done by a licensed mechanical services worker, addressing risks that led to a baby's death and another's permanent brain damage interstateClause 217 (new s 30D QBCC Act)The new licence was introduced partly in response to 2016 incidents at Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital where oxygen outlets were supplying nitrous oxide.
•Removing or disabling a backflow prevention device is an offence carrying a penalty of up to 250 penalty units, to protect drinking water from contaminationClause 71
•Tampering with temperature control devices (which prevent scalding, especially of children, the elderly and people with disabilities) is an offence of up to 250 penalty unitsClause 72
•The government can ban WaterMark-certified products from sale or installation if they are later found to be unsafe or unsuitableClauses 65 and 86A regulation may prescribe prohibited WaterMark products, and it is an offence to install them or to falsely advertise plumbing products.

10/10/2017· Hon M de Brenni MPHousing & RentingWork & Employment

Work Health and Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Approved safety codes of practice must be followed, or employers must prove they meet an equal or higher standardClause 14 (new s 26A)Restores the previous duty from the 1995 Act requiring PCBUs to comply with approved codes of practice or manage risks to an equivalent standard.
•Codes of practice expire every 5 years and must be reviewed, so safety standards cannot become outdatedClause 12Amends section 274 so that every approved code of practice expires 5 years after it is approved.
•Industrial manslaughter protections extend to electrical workers and people working in recreational water activitiesClauses 55 and 62Mirror amendments to the Electrical Safety Act 2002 and Safety in Recreational Water Activities Act 2011 create equivalent industrial manslaughter offences for those sectors.

22/8/2017· Hon G Grace MPWork & EmploymentJustice & Rights

Counter-Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

PassedThis bill became law.

•New 'extraordinary emergency' powers let police control movement, search people without warrant and take biometric information during serious non-terrorist incidents such as hostage situations or bomb threatsClause 35 (new Part 2 Division 4)Powers can only be authorised when the emergency commander is satisfied on reasonable grounds that the situation involves an explosive or a person's life or safety is seriously endangered.
•Approved police officers can destroy explosives on the spot, even if this damages buildings, when it is too dangerous or impractical to move themClause 25 (new ss 715A-715B) and Clause 33Prior approval of at least an assistant commissioner is required if structural damage to a building is expected and it is practicable to obtain that approval.
•Senior sergeants (not just inspectors) can now declare a police emergency, which should speed up response times in regional and remote communitiesClause 30Brings Queensland into line with Victoria and New South Wales; the declared area can now follow a moving person, vehicle or vessel.
•Police can covertly track high-risk people for up to 48 hours (renewable) using a tracking device to arrange a safer arrest, but cannot enter a home to install or retrieve the deviceClause 15 (new Chapter 13 Part 3A)

14/6/2017· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsTechnology & DigitalCommittee: pass

Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

PassedThis bill became law.

•Regulators can suspend or restrict a health practitioner's registration straight away if it is 'in the public interest', even before a full investigationClause 24 and Clause 65Broadens the grounds for immediate action under section 156 of the National Law and section 58 of the Health Ombudsman Act, for example when a practitioner is charged with a serious crime.
•If a practitioner works across multiple clinics, hospitals, sporting clubs or charities, the regulator must now be told about each one and can alert them all to disciplinary actionClauses 20 and 39Replaced section 132 requires 'practice information' covering employees, contractors, volunteers, honorary positions and service-company arrangements; section 206 lets boards notify all of them.
•The Queensland Health Ombudsman can vary an immediate suspension or interim prohibition order as circumstances change, instead of having to keep it in place or revoke it entirelyClauses 66 and 70New sections 58A, 58B, 68A and 68B let the Health Ombudsman vary immediate registration action or interim prohibition orders on their own initiative or on application.
•Queensland Ambulance Service officers can share information with the Paramedicine Board, AHPRA and the Health Ombudsman about paramedics who may have done the wrong thingClauses 85 and 86Amends section 50M and inserts new section 50S of the Ambulance Service Act 1991 to authorise disclosures for complaints and notifications under the National Law.

13/6/2017· Hon CR Dick MPHealthJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Safer Waterways Bill 2017

Lapsed

•Crocodiles in waterways you swim or boat in could be killed or moved to a farm once reportedClause 11, Clause 27The director must take measures to minimise injuries and deaths caused by crocodiles, and authorise persons to kill or relocate rogue crocodiles in any part of the State.
•Action on a rogue crocodile would have to start within 48 hours of the Authority being told about itClause 27(2)(d)If the authority becomes aware of a rogue crocodile, action must be taken by the director to manage any risk associated with the crocodile within 48 hours.
•Crocodiles in urban areas or public recreation spots would automatically count as 'rogue' and be removedSchedule 1 (definition of rogue crocodile)A crocodile whose location or behaviour makes it a threat to the safety or well-being of humans (example: a crocodile in an urban area or a public area commonly used for recreation) is a rogue crocodile.
•The bill lapsed, so none of these safety measures took effectThe Safer Waterways Bill 2017 lapsed at the end of the 55th Parliament and did not become law.

25/5/2017· Mr S Knuth MPEnvironmentRegional Queensland

Building and Construction Legislation (Non-conforming Building Products - Chain of Responsibility and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Dangerous cladding, cables or other building products can be recalled by the Minister, and suppliers can be forced to refund, replace or repair themClause 11, new sections 74AV-74AZAThe Minister may make a recall order requiring a responsible person to take actions including repairing, replacing or providing a refund for a non-conforming building product.
•The Minister can publish public warnings about unsafe building products so you know which products to avoidClause 11, new sections 74AZB-74AZD
•QBCC inspectors can seize dangerous products or shut down hazardous parts of a building site on the spotClause 22, new sections 106B-106CAn inspector may seize a non-conforming building product or a building site, structure or thing if it is hazardous to a degree likely to cause death or serious injury.
•The QBCC Commissioner can issue a stop work notice when there is a serious safety concern on a building siteClause 25, new section 108AI

25/5/2017· Hon M de Brenni MPHousing & RentingWork & EmploymentCommittee: pass

Public Health (Infection Control) Amendment Bill 2017

PassedThis bill became law.

•Health inspectors can enter a clinic without the usual 24 hours notice when they believe an immediate infection risk must be addressedClause 13Subsection (3) does not apply if the authorised person reasonably believes immediate entry is necessary to prevent or minimise an imminent risk of infection to a person at the health care facility.
•Queensland Health no longer has to negotiate with a local council before acting on an urgent public health risk caused by bad infection controlAmendments will empower Queensland Health to act urgently in response to an identified public health risk arising from deficient infection control practices without first seeking agreement from the relevant local government.
•Clinics that ignore a stop-work directions notice face penalties of up to 3000 penalty unitsClause 10 (new s 156H)The operator of a health care facility must comply with a directions notice given to the operator, unless the operator has a reasonable excuse; maximum penalty 3000 penalty units.
•Inspectors can demand a copy of a clinic's infection control plan and order the clinic to fix any gapsClause 9 (new ss 156A and 156B)An authorised person may require the operator to give a copy of the ICMP and other information, and may require the operator to amend an ICMP that does not comply with the Act.

21/3/2017· Hon C R Dick MPHealthCommittee: pass

Corrective Services (Parole Board) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Corrective services officers can formally direct parolees to wear a GPS tracking device and allow monitoring equipment at their homeClause 8 (s 200A)Enables an officer to direct a prisoner on parole to wear a stated device and to permit the installation of any device or equipment at the place where the prisoner resides.
•Parolees can be directed to remain at home during stated hours as a curfew, with breaches treated as breaches of paroleClause 8 (s 200A) and Clause 7A parole order may contain a condition requiring the prisoner to comply with directions under new section 200A, including remaining at a stated place for stated periods.
•The chief executive can amend a parole order for up to 28 days (for example to add a curfew) if a parolee fails to comply or poses a risk of harm or reoffendingClause 9 (s 201)The chief executive may, by written order, amend a parole order for up to 28 days if the chief executive reasonably believes the prisoner has failed to comply, poses a serious and immediate risk of harm to themselves, or poses an unacceptable risk of committing an offence.
•Police and a probation and parole expert must sit on any panel deciding parole for the most serious offenders, intended to strengthen community safety checksClause 12 (s 221, 234)Board membership must include at least one police officer nominated by the Commissioner and at least one public service officer with expertise in probation and parole, who must be present when deciding parole for prescribed prisoners.

16/2/2017· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Bail (Domestic Violence) and Another Act Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•If you are a domestic violence complainant, you must be told within 24 hours whenever the accused applies for bail or a bail variationClause 5New section 11C requires the prosecutor to notify the complainant, which can be done by email or SMS to the last known electronic address.
•People at risk of domestic violence must be told when and where a defendant is released, so they can take steps to stay safeClause 5New section 11D requires the court or police officer to give release information immediately or within 24 hours of becoming aware the person is at risk.
•Domestic violence victims can register to be notified about a prisoner's release even if the prisoner was jailed for an unrelated offenceClause 11Replaced section 320 of the Corrective Services Act 2006 lets victims of a prisoner's domestic violence join the eligible persons register.
•Registered victims will be told at least 14 days before a prisoner is discharged or released, and immediately if the prisoner escapes or diesClause 12New section 324A sets specific timeframes for providing release, escape and other safety-critical information.

14/2/2017· Mr T Nicholls MPJustice & RightsCommittee: not recommended

Liquor and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•You can stay in or enter bars and clubs in Queensland's 15 safe night precincts past 1am - the lock-out is scrappedClause 8Repeals Part 5, Division 5 (Lock out provisions) of the Liquor Act 1992, removing the 1am statutory lock-out.
•Last drinks stays at 3am across all 15 safe night precincts, with harm-reduction measures like ID scanning and banning orders still in placeClause 11Repeals the 3am safe night precinct model so all safe night precincts operate on the same 3am basis.
•Drug traffickers and suppliers caught near pubs and clubs can be banned by a court from returning to those areasClause 27Expands section 43J of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 to allow banning orders for offences against sections 5 or 6 of the Drugs Misuse Act 1986.
•Venues can no longer use back-to-back 'special event' permits to trade late every weekend - permits must tie to a genuine one-off occasionClause 15New section 103IA restricts late-night permits to special occasions wished to be celebrated by persons independent of the licensee.

14/2/2017· Hon Y D'Ath MPHealthBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Police Powers and Responsibilities (Commonwealth Games) Amendment Bill 2017

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Expect high-visibility police, metal detectors and sniffer dogs around Commonwealth Games venues, pedestrian routes and public transport hubsClause 4, sections 619J and 619MA police officer may use an electronic detection device, including a metal detector, on the person or the person's possessions, and use a firearms and explosives detection dog to carry out explosives detection.
•Police can direct you or your group to move, wait or leave a zone - by loud hailer if needed - to keep crowds flowing safelyClause 4, section 619PA police officer may, by using a loud hailer or an amplification system, give a direction to a group of persons to move to a stated place to avoid overcrowding.
•Vehicles entering Games precincts can be stopped and electronically scanned for explosives, including with machines like the Backscatter vanClause 4, section 619KUndertake an electronic inspection or search of the vehicle, including, for example, with a machine known as a Backscatter van.
•The Police Commissioner can urgently declare a new security zone if, for example, a suspicious item forces a last-minute change to a pedestrian approachClause 4, section 619HThe commissioner may by written order declare an area of land or water to be a protective security zone for a stated period if urgent action is required.

14/2/2017· Hon M Ryan MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Water Legislation (Dam Safety) Amendment Bill 2016

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•If you live downstream of a dam, you should get clearer warnings telling you when and how to act to protect yourself, not just that water is being releasedClause 18 (s 352H)The emergency action plan must state when and how the dam owner plans to warn persons who may be harmed, including what actions they should take.
•Your local council must check the dam's emergency action plan against its own disaster management plan within 30 business daysClause 18 (s 352HB)Local government must assess the emergency action plan for consistency with its disaster management plan, in consultation with its local disaster management group.
•Dam owners can lower a dam's water level when engineers identify a safety risk, reducing the chance of failure before an emergency developsClause 28 (s 399B)A dam owner may reduce the full supply level based on advice of a registered professional engineer that there is an unacceptable risk of failure.
•You may see new warning signs on public land downstream of dams and weirs telling you about the risks of entering those areasClause 6 (s 36)Authorised persons of service providers can enter public land that adjoins a watercourse or lake downstream of a dam or weir to erect warning signs.

30/11/2016· Hon M Bailey MPEnvironmentRegional QueenslandCommittee: pass (dissent)

Rail Safety National Law (Queensland) Bill 2016

PassedThis bill became law.

•Rail safety officers can enter rail premises at any time without consent or a warrant to check safety, and can seize evidence, take measurements and question peopleNational law ss 143-145 (applied)A rail safety officer may enter railway premises at any time without consent, reasonable suspicion or prior notice, though not a residence, and may inspect, examine, question, seize things and require reasonable help.
•If someone is seriously injured or killed because a rail worker engaged in reckless conduct, that worker can face imprisonmentNational law s 58 (applied)An offence against the Rail Safety National Law carrying more than 3 years imprisonment, being section 58 (failure to comply with safety duty - reckless conduct), is a misdemeanour.
•Police keep their power to breath-test and drug-test train drivers, and take priority over the regulator when they actClause 20If a police officer is exercising a power under section 80 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 in relation to a train driver, an authorised person may not exercise testing powers under the Act in relation to that train driver.

13/9/2016· Hon S Hinchliffe MPTransport & RoadsWork & EmploymentCommittee: pass

Serious and Organised Crime Legislation Amendment Bill 2016

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Wearing bikie colours or insignia in any public place, not just in pubs, now becomes a criminal offence carrying up to 12 months in jail for repeat offendersNew offence in Summary Offences Act 2005The maximum penalty will be six months imprisonment or 40 penalty units, increasing to nine months for a second offence and 12 months for any subsequent offence.
•A senior police officer can ban a person or group from an area, event or premises for up to seven days if they pose a serious risk to public safetyNew Public Safety Orders in Peace and Good Behaviour Act 1982A Commissioned police officer (rank of Inspector or above) can make a public safety order of up to seven days duration where there is a serious risk to public safety and the order is appropriate.
•Police can get a court order to search a 'restricted premises' such as a clubhouse any time without a warrant, and to force owners to remove excessive fortificationsNew restricted premises and fortification removal ordersPolice officers are empowered under a restricted premises order to search premises without warrant on an unlimited number of occasions for the duration of the order.
•Licensees and bar staff are no longer at risk of prosecution for failing to eject a colour-wearing patron if doing so would put their safety at riskAmended section 173EB of Liquor Act 1992A licensee, permittee or employee does not commit an offence if they reasonably believed their safety would have been endangered if they had refused entry to, or excluded or removed, a person wearing colours.

13/9/2016· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & Families

Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Police can now issue protection notices covering your children, relatives and associates, not just youClause 19 (new s 101B)New section 101B empowers police officers to name a child, other relative or associate of the aggrieved in a notice if necessary or desirable to protect them from associated domestic violence.
•Police can put a protective notice in place even if the perpetrator has fled the scene, and can include ouster or no-contact conditions that last until a court hearingClauses 19 and 24New section 101 removes the requirement that the respondent be at the same location as the officer; new section 106A lets police include cool-down, no-contact, ouster and return conditions in a PPN.
•Anyone named as a respondent in a police protection notice automatically has their weapons licence suspended and must surrender their weaponsClause 68Section 27A of the Weapons Act 1990 is amended so that if a licensee is named as the respondent in a PPN or release conditions, their licence is suspended for the duration of the PPN or conditions.
•Police can share limited information about you with a specialist support service without your consent if you are at serious risk, so help can reach you fasterClause 44 (new s 169F)New section 169F enables a police officer to refer a person to a specialist DFV service provider and share name, contact details and referral information where there is a threat to the person's life, health or safety because of domestic violence.

16/8/2016· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass (dissent)

Australian Crime Commission (Queensland) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•You may encounter explosives detection dogs at public events, concerts, licensed premises and other public places, not just tattoo parloursClause 9 (new s 35)Aligns the places where firearms and explosives detection dogs can operate with the places where drug detection dogs already operate.
•Fire officers can legally require you to provide information identifying the occupier of a building where a fire safety breach is suspectedClause 6 (new s 58D)Applies where an authorised fire officer reasonably suspects a contravention of the Fire and Emergency Services Act or chapter 7 or 7A of the Building Act 1975.
•Failing to give fire officers requested information without a reasonable excuse can cost you up to 20 penalty unitsClause 6, s 58D(3)The penalty is consistent with other offence provisions in part 6 of the Fire and Emergency Services Act.
•Carrying a knife or loaded weapon in a vehicle in a public place is now clearly treated as carrying it in a public place, closing a legal loopholeClauses 16 and 17Inserts a clarifying definition of 'public place' into sections 51 and 57 of the Weapons Act 1990 to match section 50.

24/5/2016· Hon B Byrne MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass (dissent)

Public Safety Business Agency and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016

PassedThis bill became law.

•Guards who protect state government buildings become Queensland Police Service staff rather than a separate security serviceClauses 32 and 35Disbands the State Government Protective Security Service and makes providing security of state buildings a function of the police service, with protective security officers appointed by the police commissioner as QPS staff members.
•The Police Commissioner takes over appointing, training and overseeing state building security officers from the Minister and administratorClauses 35, 36 and 39Transfers appointment, training arrangements and identity card responsibilities from the Minister or administrator to the police commissioner.

24/5/2016· Hon B Byrne MPGovernment & ElectionsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Counter-Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016

PassedThis bill became law.

•Police can order you or your business to hand over information during a declared terrorist or other emergency, and you can go to jail for up to a year for refusing (10 years if people could be harmed)Clause 28 (new s 8AE, 8AG)The emergency commander or a police officer may require a person to give information necessary to manage or resolve the declared emergency, with up to 40 penalty units or 1 year's imprisonment for non-compliance, rising to 10 years in aggravated circumstances.
•A terrorist emergency can now run for up to 28 days (previously 14), and even longer if extended by regulationClause 36 (new s 8H, 8HA)The Premier and Minister may extend a terrorist emergency beyond the initial seven days up to a maximum of 28 days, and a regulation may further extend by up to 14 days at a time.
•If you're near a declared area, police can stop and search your car or bus without a warrantClause 44 (new s 8P)A terrorist emergency officer may, without a warrant, stop, detain and search a vehicle about to enter, in, or reasonably suspected of having recently left a declared area.
•Police can direct you to evacuate to a reception centre and stay there while a terrorist emergency is activeClauses 35, 41, 45 (new s 8GA, 8M, 8PC)The TERC commander may declare evacuation areas (including reception centres, routes and vehicles), and officers may direct persons to go to and stay in a declared evacuation area.

19/4/2016· Hon B Byrne MPJustice & RightsGovernment & ElectionsCommittee: pass

Public Health (Water Risk Management) Amendment Bill 2016

PassedThis bill became law.

•Authorised officers can enter hospitals and aged care facilities without a warrant during operating hours to check water safety complianceClause 6 (new s 389A)Entry is allowed while the facility is open for business, but officers cannot enter parts where a person is undergoing a health procedure or consulting a practitioner.
•The rules target the most vulnerable users of water systems, where Legionnaires' disease is most often fatalThe bill responds to a 2013 Wesley Hospital Legionnaires' outbreak and international evidence that healthcare-acquired Legionellosis has a much higher fatality rate.
•Periodic reports give the department early warning so outbreaks can be investigated and contained quicklyClause 4 (new s 61I)

17/3/2016· Hon CR Dick MPHealthSeniorsCommittee: pass

Fire and Emergency Services (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Amendment Bill 2016

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Every Queensland home will need smoke alarms that all sound at once when any one of them detects smoke, giving you earlier warning to escapeClause 7 (s 104RBA(5)(e) and (6))Each smoke alarm must be interconnected to every other smoke alarm installed in the domestic dwelling so that if one detects smoke, they all sound an alert.
•Alarms must be photoelectric and powered by hardwiring or a 10-year battery, and cannot be more than 10 years old when installedClause 7 (s 104RBA(5))Each alarm must be powered in a way prescribed by regulation, comply with other regulation requirements, and have been manufactured less than 10 years before installation.
•You must replace any smoke alarm within 10 years of its manufacture date, and replace it immediately if it fails a testClause 8 (s 104RC)The owner must replace a smoke alarm within 10 years after manufacture, or immediately if it does not operate when tested; maximum penalty 5 penalty units.
•The changes respond to the 2011 Slacks Creek house fire that killed 11 people, implementing the State Coroner's 2014 recommendationsExplanatory Notes, Policy objectivesFollowing a coronial inquest into the Slacks Creek house fire, on 28 November 2014 the State Coroner recommended legislative amendments mandating photoelectric and interconnected smoke alarms throughout domestic dwellings.

23/2/2016· Hon B Byrne MPHousing & Renting

Fire and Emergency Services (Smoke Alarms) Amendment Bill 2015

WithdrawnThis bill was withdrawn from consideration and will not become law.

•Your home would need photoelectric smoke alarms, which detect smouldering fires faster than older ionisation alarmsClause 5Each smoke alarm must be a photoelectric smoke alarm and comply with AS 3786-1993.
•Alarms would be required on every storey, between bedrooms and the rest of the home, and in hallways leading to bedroomsClause 5A smoke alarm must be installed on or near the ceiling for each storey, between bedroom areas and the rest of the dwelling, and in each hallway that has an entrance to a bedroom.
•Alarms would need to be either hard-wired to mains power or use a 10-year lithium battery, so you wouldn't have to change batteries yearlyClause 5Each alarm must be a 240V hard-wired alarm or powered by a 9V lithium battery manufactured to have a battery life of at least 10 years.
•The bill was discharged and never became law, though similar smoke alarm rules were later introduced separatelyBill status: Discharged.

2/12/2015· Mr J Bleijie MPHousing & Renting

Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•Strangulation in a domestic setting is now singled out as a serious crime because it is a strong warning sign that violence may escalate to murderClause 3The Taskforce noted strangulation is a predictive risk factor for more severe domestic and family violence, including homicide.
•Offenders who commit any crime in a domestic context generally face heavier sentencesClause 5Amendments to section 9 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 require courts to treat domestic violence as an aggravating factor.

2/12/2015· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Last drinks are called at 2am across Queensland, or 3am in an approved 'safe night precinct' with a 1am lock-outClause 29; Clause 38From 1 July 2016 regular liquor trading ends at 2am (3am in approved 3am safe night precincts) and a 1am lock-out applies in those precincts.
•You cannot buy shots, bombs or other rapid-intoxication drinks anywhere in the state between midnight and 5amClause 49 (new s 155AI)New section 155AI prohibits the sale or supply of rapid intoxication drinks during the restricted period, with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units.
•Police can use a breath alcohol reading taken at an assault scene as evidence in Liquor Act cases against the venueClause 61Section 233 (Evidentiary provisions) is amended so a certificate of alcohol concentration from an assault investigation is admissible in Liquor Act proceedings.
•Local boards in 'safe night precincts' help decide whether their area keeps 3am trading, and can ask for it to be wound back to 2amClause 54 (new ss 173P-173Q)The Minister must consult the local board before recommending a 3am safe night precinct is prescribed or revoked by regulation.

12/11/2015· Hon Y D'Ath MPHealthJustice & RightsBusiness & EconomyCommittee: not recommended

Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Another Act Amendment Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•When making a domestic violence order, courts must now actively consider whether to order the perpetrator out of your home, rather than leaving it up to you to askClause 8 (amending s 57) and Clause 10 (amending s 64)Requires a court making a domestic violence order to consider whether to impose an ouster condition on the respondent in relation to the aggrieved's usual place of residence.
•A temporary protection order can now be made to protect someone who is being added to an existing domestic violence orderClause 6 (amending s 48)Extends temporary protection orders to cover another person named, or being added, in a first domestic violence order pending a decision on the variation.
•More Queensland Police interactions - including responses to domestic violence incidents - may be captured on body-worn cameras, which can be used as evidenceClause 20 (new section 609A)The amendment supports the Queensland Police Service in gathering evidence, including in relation to domestic and family violence incidents.

29/10/2015· Hon S Fentiman MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Transport Operations (Marine Safety-Domestic Commercial Vessel National Law Application) Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•Marine safety inspectors can enter premises or vessels, seize items and detain ships without a warrant in defined circumstances to deal with urgent safety risksNational Law sections 96-101 provide powers of entry, search, seizure and detention justified by the inherent mobility of commercial vessels and the need to act when an opportunity arises.
•Serious marine safety offences - including deliberately putting a person or vessel at risk, or a master failing to help someone in distress - can carry prison sentencesSections 13 and 85 of the National Law set out offences for which terms of imprisonment may be imposed.
•Certificates for commercial vessels can be suspended immediately without a show-cause process where needed to protect life, secure safe navigation or respond to a serious environmental threatSections 41(2), 51(2) and 63(2) of the National Law allow suspensions in these emergency circumstances, with decisions remaining reviewable.

27/10/2015· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsBusiness & Economy

Transport Operations (Marine Safety) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•Serious marine incidents must be reported once damage is 'significant', matching the wording used nationallyClause 35Changes references from 'material damage' and 'serious damage' to 'significant damage' to align with the National Law.
•Shipping inspectors can still enter places, request documents and direct unsafe ships to be surveyed and repaired, even when the documents were issued by the Commonwealth regulatorClauses 47, 49, 55Amendments allow inspectors to act on documents issued under the national law about domestic commercial vessels.
•Masters of Queensland regulated ships must still help people in distress at sea and assist after collisionsClause 44 (amended s 130)
•The zero blood alcohol limit continues to apply to commercial vessels carrying or authorised to carry more than 12 passengersClause 75Amends s 79 of the Road Use Management Act so the alcohol restriction applies to non-recreational vessels that carry or are authorised to carry more than 12 passengers.

27/10/2015· Hon M Bailey MPTransport & RoadsBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass

Counter-Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Queensland police can declare a terrorist emergency around a vehicle or vessel even if it crosses into another state or goes offshoreClause 9New section 3A gives the Public Safety Preservation Act 1986 extraterritorial application, so emergency declarations do not cease when a vehicle or vessel leaves Queensland.
•Landlords, sub-letting 'rent-masters' and managers of unsafe accommodation can be held responsible for fire safety breachesClause 4Widens the definition of 'occupier' in the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990 to mirror the Criminal Code so absent owners and sub-letters fall within the obligations.
•Police can respond to a siege or terrorist incident on a cruise ship well out to sea, rather than only within 3 nautical miles of the coastClauses 9 and 11Previously the PSPA and TPDA applied only to Queensland's Coastal Waters, limiting response to incidents like a hostage event on a vessel 4 nautical miles offshore.
•Australian Border Force officers are legally covered when carrying weapons on duty in Queensland, including back to 1 July 2015Clauses 16 and 17Replaces the Weapons Act 1990 exemption for 'Australian Customs Service' members with 'officer of Customs in the Australian Border Force' and adds retrospective cover for the interim period.

16/9/2015· Hon J-A Miller MPJustice & RightsCommittee: pass

Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) Amendment Bill 2015

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Higher penalties for breaching a protection order aim to deter perpetrators and better protect people at risk of domestic violenceClause 7Taskforce Recommendation 121: increase the sufficiency of penalties to hold perpetrators accountable for repeat contraventions.
•Police, courts and support agencies can more easily identify a perpetrator's pattern of domestic violence, helping prevent escalationClauses 17-18Notations on criminal history ensure offenders' pattern of domestic violence behaviour is more easily identifiable.
•Victims giving evidence against their abuser get protections that reduce the trauma of testifyingClause 11Taskforce Recommendation 133: implement alternative evidence procedures to reduce the trauma of giving evidence.

15/9/2015· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Coroners (Domestic and Family Violence Death Review and Advisory Board) Amendment Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•Systemic reviews aim to spot patterns and service failures so fewer people die from domestic and family violence in futureClause 5 (new s 91A)The purpose of the Board is to identify preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of domestic and family violence deaths in Queensland.
•The Board will review deaths caused by an abuser, and also suicides where the person had been in an abusive relationshipClause 5 (new s 91B)Domestic and family violence death includes death by suicide or suspected suicide if the person was or had been in a relevant relationship with another person that involved domestic and family violence.
•The Board can review past deaths and ones still being investigated, not just new casesClause 5 (new s 91D(1)(a))The board has the function to review domestic and family violence deaths in Queensland, including deaths that occurred before the board was established and deaths that are still being investigated.

15/9/2015· Hon Y D'Ath MPJustice & RightsChildren & FamiliesCommittee: pass

Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation (Protecting Firefighters) Amendment Bill 2015

WithdrawnThis bill was withdrawn from consideration and will not become law.

•Volunteer and rural firefighters who attend fires would have been covered on the same presumptive basis as paid fire officersClause 3 (new s 32A(4))Diseases contracted by rural firefighters performing duties as a member of a rural fire brigade, or by volunteers attending at a fire, were declared to be injuries sustained while on duty.
•The changes would have applied from the day the bill was introduced, so firefighters diagnosed on or after 3 June 2015 could have benefited if the bill had passedClause 4 (new s 707)Section 32A was to apply to a disease contracted on or after the day the Bill was introduced into the Legislative Assembly.

3/6/2015· Mr J Bleijie MPWork & EmploymentHealth

Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•Formal warnings can no longer be given to fatigued heavy vehicle drivers for substantial, severe or critical risk breaches - prosecution is the only optionClause 57A warning must not be given for a contravention of a maximum work requirement or minimum rest requirement constituting a substantial risk breach, severe risk breach or a critical risk breach.
•Maximum penalties for serious offences like breaching load or fatigue record duties have risen to as much as $20,000Clause 67 and SchedulePenalties for sections 412, 416, 428, 432, 442 and 446 increase from $6,000 to $20,000.
•Compliance officers can enter a home address if it is also a business relevant place for monitoring, but only with the occupier's consentClauses 47-48Authorised officers may enter a relevant place that is a residence for monitoring purposes if there is consent from an occupier of the place.

19/5/2015· Hon J Trad MPWork & EmploymentTransport & RoadsCommittee: pass

Work Health and Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•A dedicated Commissioner for Electrical Safety is reinstated to oversee electrical safety and advise the MinisterClause 5 (new Part 6)The commissioner is appointed by the Governor in Council, must hold an electrical trade qualification and professional experience in electrical safety, and chairs the Electrical Safety Board and Electrical Licensing Committee.
•Two industry committees are brought back to advise on electrical safety education and the safety of electrical equipmentClause 9 (new divs 2A and 2B)Re-establishes the Electrical Safety Education Committee to advise on community awareness campaigns, and the Electrical Equipment Committee to advise on safety standards, approval and use of electrical equipment.
•The maximum penalty for breaching workplace entry permit conditions is halved from 200 to 100 penalty unitsClause 24Section 123 penalty reduced to align with the national model work health and safety laws.

7/5/2015· Hon C Pitt MPWork & Employment

Local Government and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

PassedThis bill became law.

•The state disaster recovery agency keeps running indefinitely instead of shutting down in June 2015Clause 25Clause 25 repeals part 11 to extend the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Act 2011 past 30 June 2015.
•Communities hit by cyclone Marcia keep access to state-coordinated rebuilding supportSevere tropical cyclone Marcia activated the NDRRA in 14 local government areas including Rockhampton, Livingstone, North Burnett, Banana, Mackay and the Sunshine Coast.

27/3/2015· Hon J Trad MPGovernment & ElectionsRegional QueenslandCommittee: pass (dissent)

Exhibited Animals Bill 2015

Passed (amended)This bill became law after being modified during debate.

•Operators must notify authorities of serious incidents, including any death or serious injury to a person caused by an exhibited animalClauses 80-81Obligation to notify serious incidents including the death or serious injury or illness of a person caused by or originating from an authorised animal.
•Workers and volunteers at animal exhibits must notify their employer or the chief executive if an animal escapes or a serious incident occursClause 84A person acting under an exhibited animal authority who becomes aware of a serious incident must notify the authority holder or, if unreachable, the chief executive.
•Inspectors can immediately suspend a licence or enter a place without a warrant to stop an imminent and significant safety or biosecurity riskClauses 138, 159, 162Immediate suspension power and warrantless entry are available where necessary to avoid an imminent and significant relevant risk.
•Inspectors can seize animals that pose an immediate welfare or safety threat and, in extreme cases, destroy animals in unrelievable painClauses 192, 203An inspector may seize an animal where its welfare requires immediate seizure and may destroy a seized animal if in pain to the extent it is cruel to keep it alive.

27/3/2015· Hon W Byrne MPEnvironmentBusiness & EconomyCommittee: pass