The Crisafulli Government’s 2025–26 Budget marks a significant step forward in restoring safety across Cairns and the Far North, with a major package of measures to strengthen policing, support early intervention, and break the cycle of youth crime.
At the heart of the Budget is a $5.2 billion Making Our Community Safer Plan, which lays the foundations for long-term community safety and support for our hardworking frontline police.
Key local initiatives include:
- POLAIR locked in for nine years in Cairns, providing critical aerial surveillance to support police operations.
- A $35 million upgrade to Edmonton Police Station, delivering modern facilities and resourcing to meet current community needs.
- A new Youth Justice School to support young people on community orders, helping to steer them away from crime through tailored education, mentoring, and family support.
- Additional frontline police officers as part of the Government’s plan to recruit 1,600 new police over the next four years.
Since its initial launch in October 2024, Cairns’ POLAIR has assisted in over 600 police operations, contributing to 167 arrests, including 76 youth offenders, and the recovery of 73 stolen vehicles. This long-term funding commitment ensures this valuable service remains in place to support police and deter criminal activity.
The Budget also includes statewide investments in:
- $560 million for early intervention and rehabilitation programs.
- $147.9 million for frontline police resources like Taser 10s, body cameras, and first aid kits.
- $290.3 million in new and upgraded police infrastructure.
- $50 million for a Victims’ Advocate Service to better support those impacted by crime.
Premier David Crisafulli emphasised the urgency of the reforms:
“Cairns has borne the brunt of Labor’s youth crime crisis. Our Budget delivers real solutions—stronger laws, more police, and the early intervention needed to create lasting change.”
Youth Justice and Victim Support Minister Laura Gerber echoed the sentiment, highlighting that the Youth Justice Schools are designed to offer structure, discipline, and intensive support to young people at risk of becoming repeat offenders.
This Budget delivers what Far North Queensland has long called for: real investment, real action, and real results to make our community safer. It’s the beginning of a new chapter for Cairns—one focused on safety, accountability, and opportunity.
