The Crisafulli Government has introduced new legislation to Parliament aimed at restoring safety across Queensland’s business and community precincts, strengthening police powers that were weakened over the past decade.
Announced in Maryborough by Premier David Crisafulli and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie, the reforms are designed to combat rising antisocial behaviour, drug-related offending, and violence in commercial centres and regional communities.
At the heart of the legislation is the creation of Designated Business and Community Precincts in targeted areas across Queensland. These precincts will give police expanded authority to maintain order and protect local businesses, workers, and families.
Under the proposed laws, police will be able to:
- Immediately move on individuals engaging in disorderly, offensive, threatening or violent behaviour.
- Issue 24-hour move-on directions.
- Impose banning notices of up to one month for repeat or serious offenders.
- Charge individuals who contravene these directions, making non-compliance a criminal offence.
The reforms also extend “Jack’s Law” wanding powers into these precincts, enabling officers to detect knives and weapons without a warrant in designated areas to prevent violence before it occurs.
Read more: FNQ Crime Updates – Bree James MP
