What’s Happening
As of September 1, new laws have come into effect across Queensland aimed at curbing knife crime. Retailers are now prohibited from selling knives to anyone under 18 and must display clear signage about these age restrictions. Additionally, certain controlled items, like double-edged knives and machetes, must be securely stored.
Why It Matters
This legislation expands upon Jack’s Law, allowing police to conduct metal detection wanding operations in new high-risk locations. Since its inception, Jack’s Law has led to the seizure of 689 weapons across 7,000 operations, underscoring the importance of these new measures in making Queensland safer.
By the Numbers
- 689 weapons seized since March 2023
- 7,000 operations conducted
- 72,000 people scanned
- 1,950 charged with 3,500+ offences
Local Impact
With the expansion of Jack’s Law, wanding operations will now include places like shopping centres, sporting venues, and high-risk retail outlets. This, coupled with the new retail laws, is a significant step forward in preventing knife-related crimes, especially among youth.
What to Look For Next
Retailers should ensure compliance with these new regulations to avoid hefty fines. Communities can expect increased safety measures, with more public areas being monitored for weapons, contributing to safer environments across Queensland.
For more information, visit Queensland Police Service.
