The Queensland Parliament has enacted new legislation allowing the fitting of electronic monitoring bracelets on children as young as 10 who are on bail, without requiring their consent. This measure was announced by Queensland Premier Youth Justice Minister Laura Gerber, who emphasized its role in strengthening bail laws and bolstering public safety. The minister indicated that this initiative represents the initial phase of broader reforms aimed at prioritizing victims' rights, imposing consequences for offenders, and reducing recidivism rates.

The introduction of electronic monitoring for young offenders builds upon a 2021 trial that allowed serious repeat offenders over 15 to be monitored electronically in specific regions, including southeast Queensland, Townsville, and Cairns. Gerber stated that these reforms would aid frontline workers in reactively managing cases and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions. The push for stringent measures is part of the government’s strategy to enhance community safety and uphold the principle of justice for victims.

This move has raised concerns among advocates for youth rights, who question the implications of monitoring very young children and the potential impact on their rehabilitation. The ability to fit 10-year-olds with ankle bracelets marks a significant shift in the approach toward juvenile justice in Queensland, as the state seeks to balance punitive measures with rehabilitation efforts in a landscape that is increasingly focused on victim rights and community safety.