Queensland Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay last week to address the growing issue of crime in the region. During his visit, the Premier stopped by Corry Cycles, a local business that has suffered repeated break-ins throughout the year. Highlighting the challenges faced by small business owners, he acknowledged the toll that ongoing crime has taken on their operations.
Premier Crisafulli reaffirmed his commitment to tackling youth crime, stating, "I made the promise before the election that we would put youth crime front and centre, and I’m honouring that promise.
“I wanted to come back to Mackay as early as possible after the tabling of those laws to let the city know that we are serious about driving change."
He emphasised the importance of addressing youth crime while also acknowledging the difficulties small businesses face.
"A small business owner who’s been broken into a couple of dozen times…that shouldn’t be the case," said the Premier.
"No one’s suggesting that you won’t have crime, but we have to turn the tide on it.
“It just can’t be more victims every single year."
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli met with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly and business owner Evan Corry at Corry Cycles in Mackay last week to discuss youth crime. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The LNP state government introduced the Making Queensland Safer Bill into parliament earlier this month and the legislation has been considered by a parliamentary committee for a week before its fast-tracked and discussed this week.
The law changes include the LNP's "adult crime, adult time" policy, which would apply adult sentences to juveniles who commit certain serious offences, which includes dangerous use of a motor vehicle and burglary.
Premier Crisafulli stressed that stronger laws would send a clear message that there are consequences for criminal behaviour. However, he also highlighted the need for early intervention to prevent a lifetime of crime.
"It’s equally important to intervene early and try to turn people away from a lifetime of crime."
The Premier’s visit highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by businesses like Corry Cycles, which has experienced multiple break-ins in recent years. Evan Corry, co-owner of the business alongside his brother, Ryan, recounted a recent incident in which a thief stole a bike in broad daylight while staff were unloading a truck with Christmas stock.
“It’s disappointing and quite scary,” said Corry, who noted that his shop had been broken into nearly ten times this year alone, prompting him to invest tens of thousands of dollars in security upgrades.
Corry shared his frustration, and said, "You just shake your head.
“These people don’t even care anymore.
“They’re not afraid of the consequences."
Despite spending significant amounts on security, including metal bars and Crimsafe for windows, he continues to face the reality of frequent break-ins.
"To be honest, I got sick of sweeping up glass at 2am after break-ins…but now, it seems we also need to stand watch while unloading trucks, which is really disappointing," he added.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP echoed these concerns, calling for action across both urban and rural areas.
"Crime just doesn’t only happen in the cities.
“Crime happens everywhere.
“When you go to bed at night, you want to sleep in peace…you don’t want to go to bed at night with one eye open."
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP also emphasised the importance of early intervention in tackling youth crime.
Premier Crisafulli also noted the need for better support for youth leaving detention.
"Stronger laws send a consequence that there is a repercussion for doing something wrong…but it’s equally important to intervene early and try to turn people away from a lifetime of crime."
He highlighted that more than half of those leaving youth detention currently lack access to a 72-hour plan.
"We are going to ensure every single person has a 12-month plan, with six months of intensive support, to stop the repeat cycle," the Premier said.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli met with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly and business owner Evan Corry from Corry Cycles.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli
Evan Corry, co-owner of Corry Cycles. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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