Laws to better protect Queenslanders coming forward underway

Published Friday, 18 June, 2021 at 11:08 AM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence
The Honourable Shannon Fentiman

Journalists and whistleblowers are set to get better protections as the Palaszczuk Government begins consultation on the introduction of shield laws in Queensland.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said the consultation paper released today would help inform the development of new laws to better protect Queenslanders when they come forward with important information.

“A free, independent and effective media is crucial for a strong democracy,” the Attorney-General said.

“Journalists need to be protected when doing their jobs and Queenslanders need to be protected if they come forward with important information.”

Minister Fentiman said effective shield laws must strike the right balance between protecting the media and Queensland public, and allowing courts to act in the interests of justice.

“We are delivering on our commitment to consult on introducing shield laws – these are complex laws, and we need to get them right with the strongest safeguards,” Minister Fentiman said.

As part of this process the Department of Justice and Attorney-General has been reviewing Queensland case law and examining laws in other jurisdictions.”

“I encourage all stakeholders – the media, legal profession and the public – to have their say on the framework for the introduction of shield laws in Queensland.”

The consultation paper is available at:

https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/community-engagement/community-consultation/community-consultation-activities/current-activities/consideration-of-shield-laws-to-protect-journalists-confidential-sources 

Feedback can be given through the survey on Get Involved at https://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au or via a written submission.

Consultation will close at 5pm, Tuesday 13 July 2021.

ENDS

Media contact: Penni Pappas (FENTIMAN) 0438 747 540