In May 2025, the Queensland Parliament passed further amendments to the Making Queensland Safer Act, expanding the list of serious offences that can attract adult-equivalent penalties when committed by young offenders. These changes took effect on 23 May 2025.

These further reforms build on earlier changes introduced in late 2024 and are part of the government’s broader legislative response to youth offending. You can read more about the earlier changes in our article, “Significant changes to youth justice laws in Queensland”.

Expanded list of ‘adult crime, adult time’ offences

The latest changes to section 175A of the Youth Justice Act 1992 introduce 20 additional offences, including:

• attempted murder;
• rape and attempted rape;
• torture;
• sexual assault;
• kidnapping;
• drug trafficking;
• aggravated robbery;
• threats of violence and going armed in public;
• assaults resulting in harm to an unborn child;
• damage to emergency or police vehicles during an offence.

The full list now includes 33 serious offences for which children aged 10 to 17 may face adult sentencing outcomes.

Key sentencing changes for young offenders

These latest reforms introduce significant sentencing changes for young offenders who are convicted of any of the (currently 33) prescribed serious offences.

For prescribed offences under this framework:

• maximum penalties mirror those applied to adults;
• mandatory minimum terms apply for specific crimes, such as life imprisonment with non-parole periods;
• probation terms may be extended from 2 to 3 years;
• restorative justice orders are no longer available for these offences;
• the victim information register is amended to allow a nominated person to receive information on behalf of the victim.

These provisions apply to offences committed after the legislation came into force; that is, offences committed on or after 23 May 2025.

The Making Queensland Safer Act 2024 represents a significant shift in the way Queensland’s justice system handles young offenders.

Choosing a criminal lawyer to represent your child

The lawyers at Gilshenan & Luton have expertise in the specialised and complex area of youth crime law and can provide representation for your child or a child you care for at any stage of a criminal matter. 

The legal system can be an intimidating and confronting process, especially for a child. It is vital that you obtain advice and assistance from knowledgeable lawyers with expertise in this area at the earliest opportunity.

If you have questions about how these changes could affect your legal situation or require advice on matters related to youth justice, contact our experienced legal team today. We are here to help guide you through these changes and ensure that your rights are protected in this new legal environment.

Contacting Gilshenan & Luton Lawyers

📞 07 3361 0222  (24/7)

📧 gnl@gnl.com.au