Electronic monitoring devices have been found to reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Photo: Supplied.
Courts across the state and in Far North Queensland can now impose a GPS device as a bail condition for any youth offender aged 10-17, including first-time offenders, after new youth bail monitoring laws were passed in parliament.
The Youth Justice (Electronic Monitoring) Amendment Bill 2025 made electronic monitoring for youth on bail permanent and statewide, putting GPS trackers on more youth offenders.
Electronic monitoring devices have been found to reduce the likelihood of reoffending by 24 per cent.
The Queensland Government said it was restoring safety ”where you live with stronger laws to restore consequences for actions, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation”.
Minister for Youth Justice Laura Gerber said strong youth bail monitoring laws were part of the government’s plan to deliver safety and reduce victim numbers.
“By putting more GPS trackers on youth offenders on bail, alongside intensive support services, we will reduce reoffending, have fewer victims of crime and safer communities,” minister Gerber said.
Member for Barron River Bree James said locals across Far North Queensland expected tough laws.
“We promised this community we would strengthen youth crime laws to restore safety, and that’s exactly what we are doing,” Ms James said.
“Unlike Labor, who weakened youth crime laws and created a generation of serious repeat offenders, the Crisafulli Government is delivering strong laws to turn the tide on Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis.”
Member for Mulgrave Terry James said these laws meant more youth offenders on bail could be tracked 24/7, to provide the community with greater protection.
“This is not an alternative to detention, youth offenders who should be in detention will be, but when a youth is released on bail, these laws mean they can be monitored 24/7,” Mr James said.
“Far North Queenslanders voted for strong laws and consequences for action, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering.”
