Queensland has taken a significant step towards enhancing public safety with the permanent enactment of a law allowing police to search individuals for weapons in public areas without a warrant. This landmark legislation, passed during a late-night parliamentary session on June 11th, solidifies what was initially a trial measure known as “Jack’s Law.”

Inspired by the tragic death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley in a 2019 knife attack, Jack’s Law was first introduced as a trial in April 2023. The law empowers Queensland police officers to utilize handheld metal detectors to identify and confiscate concealed weapons from individuals in various locations.

This broadened authority now applies permanently to public transport hubs, vehicles, and fifteen designated entertainment precincts throughout the state. The legislation represents a strong response to concerns about public safety and aims to deter weapon-related violence by enabling proactive measures by law enforcement.