Jack’s Law legislation signed off on day of 21st birthday

Stabbing victim Jack Beasley would have turned 21 today as the legislation in honour of the murdered Gold Coast son is made official.

Queensland knife detection laws have been officially signed off by the Governor on the same day Jack Beasley would have turned 21 — the Gold Coast stabbing victim whose murder inspired legislation.

The new laws, dubbed Jack’s Law, will allow police officers to use metal detection wands to search for weapons in safe night precincts across the state as well as public transport centres.

The amendment to the police powers and responsibilities bill was inspired by the horrific stabbing death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley on the Gold Coast in 2019.

Brett and Belinda Beasley pictured at Queensland parliament where Jack’s Law was passed. Picture: David Clark

It was passed in parliament last week and confirmed on Sunday as Jack’s family paid tribute to their “beautiful boy” on what would have been his 21st birthday.

“On this day 21 years ago at 1.58am you came into this world and you completed our family,” Jack’s mum Belinda posted on Facebook.

“Happy 21st birthday my beautiful boy, it just doesn’t get easier.

“You should be celebrating with us and your friends. Forever loved, forever missed and forever heart broken.”

Jack Beasley was stabbed to death at Surfers Paradise in 2019.

Last week, Police Minister Mark Ryan said he had “no doubt these powers will save lives and reduce violence on our streets”.

“We are always looking at ways to provide our police with stronger legislation, and better tools and resources to do their jobs, and better protect the community,” he said.

“I want to commend Brett and Belinda Beasley, from the Jack Beasley Foundation.

“Their dedication and fierce advocacy has played a significant role in the extension of wanding powers to assist police.