Forensic Services QLD Bolsters Confidence in Justice System
Forensic Services QLD Bolsters Confidence in Justice System
The Queensland Government has made significant progress in reforming its forensic DNA testing services, with over $190 million committed to delivering world-class forensic services. An additional $94.5 million has been announced to continue this important reform. The government has accepted all 123 recommendations made in the Commission of Inquiry’s report on forensic DNA testing in Queensland and has already completed 33 of them. A further 57 recommendations are currently underway. The reforms aim to address flawed testing procedures and strengthen the quality and scientific integrity of forensic services.
Significant Progress in Reforming Forensic DNA Testing Services
The Queensland Government has made significant inroads into reforming its forensic DNA testing services, with an additional $94.5 million announced today to continue this important reform. The first progress report, tabled in parliament today, outlines work done in response to the Commission of Inquiry into Forensic DNA Testing in Queensland, conducted by Walter Sofronoff KC. The government accepted all 123 recommendations made in the report and made an initial investment of over $100 million. To date, 33 recommendations have been completed, and a further 57 are currently underway.
Focus on Long-Term Reform and Strengthening Forensic Services
The remaining recommendations from the Commission of Inquiry focus on long-term reform and are dependent on legislative changes and progress in other areas. These include renewing forensic science infrastructure, enhancing information technology platforms, managing impacts on the criminal justice system, and strengthening the quality and scientific integrity of forensic services. The government is also conducting a large-scale recruitment drive to source scientists to staff Forensic Services Queensland and help implement the recommendations. So far, 27 scientists have been employed, and this new investment will allow for further recruitment and support.
For more information, the progress report can be viewed here.
For support regarding these matters, including concerned victims, please contact the Queensland Police Service hotline on 1300 993 191.
Source: Bollyinside
