‘Toughest in country’: Adrian Tantari backs new youth crime laws

The state MP of a community under siege due to youth crime has backed the introduction of new laws into the parliament to crack down on the issue, saying they will be the toughest in the country.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari MP. Picture: Liam Kidston

A state MP whose community has been devastated by youth crime said serial offenders would be targeted by new laws being debated in parliament this week.

Speaking in parliament on Tuesday night, Hervey Bay MP Adrian Tantari said the legislation was about putting community safety first by targeting serious offenders.

“Make no mistake, if you are intent on offending against our community, these new laws are firmly targeting you or anyone who wishes to do harm to our community,” he said.

“I have lobbied hard for these changes with the Premier, the Minister Police and the Minister Youth Justice and they have responded.

“As a part of these laws, breach of bail will be a criminal offence for young offenders for the first time this century.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari. Picture: Liam Kidston

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“At my request, a new rapid-response youth co-responder team will be put to work in Hervey Bay alongside high-visibility targeted patrols, as well as a package of support for victims of crime and further investment in community safety.

“This is on top of a new police station and more police that I have already secured for our city.”

It comes after a spate of youth crime in the city, including the alleged murder of Uber driver Scott Cabrie by two teenagers.

Last week it was reported that 15 Hervey Bay businesses had fallen victim to break-ins in just a matter of days, including popular restaurant Banksia Bar and Grill which captured CCTV footage of two young men using a brick to smash through a glass door.

Then on Tuesday, police released a statement saying five teenagers had been arrested and charged with 66 offences after a spate of alleged property crimes across the Fraser Coast, including a break-in at Howard’s Grand Hotel.

“I want to thank our community and many shop owners across Hervey Bay for speaking with me about their experiences,” Mr Tantari said.

“They have been heard and their input is the foundation of these tougher new laws and our community thanks them for that.

“Queensland will now have among the toughest youth laws in the country.”

The new laws are expected to be passed after debate this week in parliament.