In a move aimed at improving child safety, the Queensland government is set to introduce a new child sex offender registry, dubbed “Daniel’s Law,” in honour of Daniel Morcombe, a boy who was abducted and murdered in 2003.
The registry, which will be launched through legislation in state parliament, will feature safeguards to prevent vigilantism and ensure that those who misuse the information will face severe penalties, including up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Safeguards Against Misuse
Police Minister Dan Purdie emphasized that the government trusts parents to use the information wisely, but wants to prevent individuals from misusing it.
“We don’t want people to misuse it,” he stated.
“Like they have done in other states, there are a series of offences for people who want to misuse the information, and in particular, might want to incite violence or harassment.”
Those who intimidate or harass an offender, or incite others to do so, will face up to 10 years in jail.
Additionally, anyone sharing information obtained through the registry without authorisation will face a maximum penalty of three years behind bars.
Registry Structure
The registry will consist of three elements.
The first will feature a new webpage listing reportable offenders who have failed to comply with reporting obligations or whose whereabouts are unknown.
This webpage will include the offender’s full name, photograph, and year of birth.
The second element will allow Queenslanders to apply to view images of sex offenders living in their local area, with a focus on those with the greatest risk of reoffending.
The final element will enable parents and guardians to apply to find out if someone having unsupervised contact with their child is a reportable offender.
Family Support
Daniel Morcombe’s parents, Bruce and Denise, have expressed support for the new legislation, seeing it as a valuable tool for parents and the community.
“We see it as a great tool for parents, carers, and the community to see if there are any convicted paedophiles in the area,” Denise Morcombe stated.
While acknowledging that the law is not a foolproof measure, Bruce Morcombe believes it is an important step forward.
“Would Daniel’s Law have made a difference in Daniel’s case?
Probably not, but that’s not the be all and end all,” he said.
The legislation is expected to pass before the end of the year, providing a critical tool for protecting Queensland’s children.