Qld government orders second inquiry into forensic DNA testing

A second independent inquiry into how one state runs its forensic DNA testing has been ordered after more botched samples were revealed.

The Queensland government has ordered a second inquiry into forensic DNA testing following revelations 37,000 cases need reviewing.

It comes months after Judge Walter Sofronoff found during the first inquiry last year that a series of factors including “mismanagement” and “dishonesty by senior managers” had led to the failures within the state-run DNA lab.

The original inquiry offered 123 recommendations after it found serious problems in how the state-run DNA lab conducted its forensic testing of evidence, known as Project 13.

Dr Annabelle Bennett has been selected to run the second inquiry into Queensland’s state-run DNA lab. Picture: Supplied

The latest inquiry, led by Dr Annabelle Bennett AC, will review recent public statements and other documents in relation to automated DNA extraction methods.

It will also assess whether Judge Sofronoff‘s recommendation are sufficient to address the failures

Dr Bennett, a retired judge of the Federal Court of Australia and the former president of the Australian Academy of Forensic Sciences, is also the commissioner for the National Natural Disaster Arrangements inquiry.

Dr Bennett will have authority to interview experts whose advice about DNA extraction methods as they relate to Project 13 helped inform the initial inquiry’s findings and recommendations.

The commissioner’s final report and recommendations will be completed by November 17.

The new inquiry was launched following the discovery that about 7000 additional serious crime and sexual assault cases needed to be reviewed as a result of insufficient automated DNA extraction methods.

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman says about 37000 cases need to be reviewed. Picture: NCA NewsWire / John Gass

Queensland Health Minister Health Shannon Fentiman said the second review was necessary after the total number of cases to be reviewed ballooned out to about 37,000.

“Concerns have been brought to my attention since the 2022 commission of inquiry that relate to the automated DNA extraction method that was introduced in October 2007 under what is known as Project 13,” Ms Fentiman said.

“The original commission of inquiry already recommended a number of reviews of DNA processes and sample cohorts, which the Queensland government supports.

“This new inquiry will ensure a transparent and comprehensive review of matters raised after the original inquiry and is in line with the Queensland government’s commitment to rebuilding the state’s forensic and DNA testing processes.”

Since Judge Sofronoff handed down his 123 recommendations in December, 34 recommendations have been adopted and a further 68 are under way.

“We have already seen some very promising results since last year’s inquiry, and this second inquiry looking specifically at Project 13 will ensure that the public can have full confidence in our state’s forensic services,” Ms Fentiman said.

“I look forward to receiving Dr Annabelle Bennett AC’s final report and recommendations in November.”

Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath says victims of crime deserve answers. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Glenn Campbell

Queensland Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said the new inquiry would provide victims of crimes and their families further support and comfort in the justice system.

“It’s vitally important Queenslanders have faith in all aspects of their justice system including the collection, extraction, and testing of DNA,“ Ms D’Ath said.

“This new commission of inquiry will answer questions and concerns recently raised in relation to what is known as Project 13.

“Dr Bennett is an experienced and respected jurist who is a great choice to lead the commission of inquiry.

“Victims of crime and their families are entitled to learn the truth.

“If we are to rebuild trust in our systems, we need to build on the good work already undertaken to turn Forensic Science Queensland into a world-leading facility.”

Forensic Science Queensland has already committed to reviewing serious crime cases and associated samples back to 2007, with the flexibility to go further back if required.