COMMUNITIES across Queensland will see more youth offenders on bail monitored with GPS devices following new laws passed by Parliament today.
The Youth Justice (Electronic Monitoring) Amendment Bill 2025 makes electronic monitoring permanent and statewide, allowing courts to impose GPS tracking on young offenders aged 10–17—even first-time offenders.
The reforms aim to reduce reoffending, lower victim numbers, and improve community safety, while ensuring young people get the support they need to stay on the right path.
State Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard warned the laws go against research evidence.
“Electronic monitoring devices don’t reduce reoffending on their own; they rely on strong early intervention and support services,” she said.
“The LNP promised ‘Rolled Gold’ early intervention, but it hasn’t materialised, and Queenslanders still can’t see crime falling or get straight answers about implementation. That’s why Labor will push for a mandatory 18-month review to ensure these changes are working.”
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the reforms balance accountability with rehabilitation.
“These laws are about keeping communities safe while providing intensive support services to youth on bail. It’s about preventing crime, reducing victims, and giving young people the chance to change their lives.”
Research shows electronic monitoring can cut the likelihood of reoffending by around 24 percent, making it one of the most effective tools to prevent repeat youth crime.
The reforms build on limited GPS trials under the former Government, which monitored just four youth offenders in the first year.
The changes form part of a broader push to restore safety in local communities, with increased police presence, early intervention programs, and rehabilitation services aimed at breaking the cycle of youth offending.
For Queenslanders, the message is clear: more oversight, more support, and safer streets for families and communities.
