The State Government has announced a stronger stance against drug and alcohol-fuelled violence, including tougher penalties for offenders and a greater police presence in entertainment precincts.
All options must be put on the table for consideration with feedback from Queenslanders, and especially young people, about what approach should be taken to tackle this problem. So far we have received an overwhelming support for tougher laws and penalties.
Some people are suggesting limiting opening hours at pubs and clubs to 3am and imposing a 1.30 am lockout. These restrictions have been in place on the Sunshine Coast for some time. Another option is to get tough on those few people who are responsible for the violence and antisocial behaviour.
I believe it’s also time for serious investigation of the impact of steroids and other drugs when combined with alcohol. I look forward to hearing your views on how we put a stop to this violent criminal behaviour.
In regard to a recent court case, I have approached the Attorney General and the Minister for Police to appeal what appears to be a very lenient six month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months imposed by the court last week on one of the assailants of a violent gang bashing of a young man on the Coast. Any violence is unacceptable but when incidents happen, we want to see justice for the victims and appropriate consequences for offenders.