The LNP announces its No Body, No Parole policy to ensure the scales of justice are balanced in favour of victims not offenders
• The LNP’s policy will put Queensland in line with South Australia, while New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia are considering implementing similar laws
• The Palaszczuk Labor Government favours criminals ahead of victims and their loved ones
Convicted killers who fail to tell authorities where they have dumped a body will be refused parole under a tough new LNP policy aimed at empowering victims not offenders.
Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls said for far too long the scales of justice in Queensland put the rights of criminals ahead of community expectations and victims.
“A future LNP Government will implement No Body, No Parole laws in Queensland,” Mr Nicholls said.
“We will do this in consultation with victims groups, the parole board and key organisations involved in the justice system.
“This is all about criminals showing genuine remorse and giving families closure.”
Bruce and Denise Morcombe* said the LNP’s No Body, No Parole policy was a huge win for victims and their families.
Mr and Mrs Morcombe’s son, Daniel Morcombe, was abducted and murdered in December 2003, with the family forced to endure a decade-long wait before they could lay their son to rest.
“We applaud the No Body No Parole policy and support it,” Bruce and Denise Morcombe said.
“Our extensive travels around Queensland supporting the aims of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation have allowed us to engage with family members who have not had the opportunity to say farewell to a murdered loved one.
“This policy will assist them greatly by providing some comfort with a place to reflect.”
Shadow Corrective Services Minister Tim Mander said the LNP’s policy would put Queensland in line with South Australia, while New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia were considering implementing similar laws.
“The Palaszczuk Labor Government is soft on crime and favours criminals ahead of victims,” Mr Mander said.
“While other states and territories have moved to implement strong parole reforms, Queensland Labor have sat idle with their heads in the sand, not wanting to upset the inner-city, bleeding heart brigade.
“Our laws will apply to offenders serving a jail sentence for murder or conspiracy to murder.
“To grant parole, the parole board must be satisfied the offender has co-operated to identify the location, or last known location, of the remains of the victim.
“This policy will apply to criminals who have not yet been released from jail on parole.”
*Bruce and Denise Morcombe are available for interview to speak about the LNP’s No Body, No Parole policy.
Mr Morcombe can be contacted on 0400 299 150 or alternatively Mrs Morcombe can be contacted on 0434 326 435.
