The Queensland government will push through a third round of “adult crime, adult time” laws, expanding tough sentencing rules for children as young as 10.
Queensland premier David Crisafulli has confirmed the state government will introduce a third tranche of “adult crime, adult time” legislation in the first quarter of the year.
The existing laws allow children convicted of 33 serious offences to be sentenced as adults, including mandatory life sentences for some murder convictions involving children aged 10 and over.
Current offences covered include breaking and entering, serious assault and arson.
Crisafulli said further offences would be added under the next round, though the government has not yet detailed which crimes would be included.
The government also announced the location of Queensland’s first youth justice school, aimed at children on youth justice orders.
Youth justice minister Laura Gerber said a disused youth justice service centre would be converted into the school, which is expected to open in term three.
