Key progress made in rebuilding Queensland’s DNA and forensic services

• The Palaszczuk Government’s Workforce Attraction Incentive Scheme responsible for recruiting three senior scientists to Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ)
• Consultation is starting on the draft Forensic Science Queensland Bill that will support the functions of FSQ
• Latest progress builds on Queensland Government’s $95 million commitment to rebuilding DNA and forensic services

The rebuilding of Queensland’s DNA and forensic services has taken a significant step forward with the recruitment of eminent scientists and the start of consultation on a proposed framework to govern Forensic Science Queensland.

The Palaszczuk Government’s Workforce Attraction Incentive Scheme has led to the appointment of three leading scientists to senior management roles.

The three scientists bring with them a combined experience of more than 50 years in forensics, with backgrounds in biology, crime scene investigation and human remains identification.

The appointments form part of FSQ’s push to attract the best and brightest talent to help position the organisation as a leader in DNA and forensics analysis.

The addition of new scientists comes amid the start of consultation on the draft Forensic Science Queensland Bill, which aims to support the functions of FSQ.

Consultation is being undertaken with key stakeholders in criminal justice, forensic science, health and victim support groups, who will all have the opportunity to provide feedback on and inform the progress of the draft Bill.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman:

“Rebuilding Queensland’s DNA and forensic services to the highest standard is a complex and challenging task, but today’s announcements are a significant step towards achieving this goal.

“The appointments of the three individuals speak to their desire to contribute toward our vision of delivering a DNA and forensic service that sets the benchmark for others to follow.

“As with any organisation, the success of Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) will hinge significantly on building a team of respected and qualified experts in their fields.

“The Queensland Government has been clear in its commitment following the Commission of Inquiry: we want to restore the public’s confidence in DNA and forensic services.

“It is why we are investing more than $95 million to manage the body of work stemming from the Inquiry, building FSQ’s foundations and recruiting the right people to help the organisation succeed.”

Quotes attributable to Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Yvette D’Ath:

“Restoring confidence in Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) and its role within the justice system is a key commitment of the Palaszczuk Government.

“It was never going to be a quick process, but these new appointments show the Queensland Government is making progress.

“The Government has always said we would rebuild FSQ from the ground up and leave Queensland with a facility that was the envy of the world, and this is just the next step in achieving that goal.

“Work is well underway to draft the Forensic Science Queensland Bill, which will provide a statutory scaffold responsive to the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations.

“The Palaszczuk Government looks forward to hearing feedback from stakeholders on the draft Bill.”

ENDS

Media contact – Natarjsha Kramer – 0456 436 934