Queensland’s proposed “breach bail, go to jail” legislation has attracted broad criticism in more than 250 submissions to a state parliamentary inquiry.
The bill would apply to adults and children accused of committing specified serious offences while on bail. If convicted, they could face a mandatory minimum 12-month prison term. It also proposes a new bail test requiring a high degree of confidence that a person will not reoffend.
Legal groups, advocacy services and policing organisations raised concerns about undefined legal language, pressure on courts and overcrowded watch houses, the cost of detaining children and the potential impact on First Nations communities.
The Queensland Police Union supported the policy’s broad aim but warned that remand capacity and delayed prisoner transfers could undermine its operation. Victim advocates also called for prevention and support measures alongside tougher penalties.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington has argued the proposal responds to repeat serious offending while people are on bail. The government has said it intends to pass the legislation before the end of 2026. The proposal remains subject to parliamentary consideration.
Source: ABC News reporting on public submissions to the Queensland parliamentary inquiry.
Illustration disclosure: The featured image is an AI-generated editorial concept. It is not an official committee photograph, bill or court document.
