Queensland Government Defends Tough Youth Crime Laws Amid UN Criticism

Queensland’s attorney-general says she knows the laws will run counter to international norms, but says the crime situation is ‘exceptional.’

A youth advocate looks on prior to a panel on children's rights and the digital environment to mark the annual day of the child, at the 52nd UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, on March 10, 2023. Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images

A Queensland government spokesperson has responded to criticism from U.N. representatives who say new youth crime laws actually “disregard children’s rights” under international law.

The newly elected LNP government introduced the “Making Queensland Safer” laws as part of its campaign targeting youth crime, which has soared in regional areas like Townsville.