April 8, 2024
A petition requesting the legalisation of pepper spray, stun guns, tasers and batons for “law-abiding Queenslanders” has been rejected by the State Government.
The petition, posted on February 6, attracted 2563 signatures before it closed on March 6.
It requested the legalisation of the “non-lethal self-defence items” because of “the inability of the Queensland police to protect Queenslanders from violent crime”.
Acting Police Minister Meaghan Scanlon said she acknowledged the concerns raised by the petitioners but said the State Government was “committed to keeping our community safe and ensuring our laws are robust and remain appropriate to preserve peace and good order”.
“The issue of legalising the use of weapons for additional purposes is complex and requires careful consideration of various factors, including legal implications, the risk and impact of increasing the availability of dangerous items within the community which can be misappropriated for the commission of violent offences, and the potential impact on law enforcement efforts and other strategies designed to enhance community safety,” Ms Scanlon said.
“The Queensland Government will always act on the advice of the Queensland Police Service and that is why the use of items such as pepper spray, stun guns, tasers and batons is strictly regulated.
“The QPS advises that the use of these items carries an inherent risk and can have unintended consequences, including unlawfully or accidentally causing death or grievous bodily harm.
“In addition, there is a real risk that these items can be misappropriated by criminals and used for the commission of offences which cause harm to the community.
“While the government appreciates the petitioners’ views on this issue, the government accepts the QPS advice on this matter and accordingly the reclassification of these items is not supported at this time.”
