Police included Toowong Village in a series of public weapon scanning operations across Queensland, though no weapons or charges were recorded at the site.
Background and Context
Toowong Village was one of several public sites scanned under the expanded provisions of Queensland’s Jack’s Law. The law, named after 17-year-old Jack Beasley, was introduced following his fatal stabbing in Surfers Paradise in 2019. It permits police to use handheld metal detectors to search individuals in public without requiring reasonable suspicion. Initially trialled in designated precincts, the law was later expanded across the state. From April 2023 to June 2025, police scanned over 122,000 individuals and seized more than 1,100 weapons.
Wanding Operation Data: Toowong Among Low-Detection Sites
Between January and March 2025, Queensland Police scanned over 12,400 people across various locations including shopping centres, public transport hubs, and nightlife precincts. At Toowong Village, 10 individuals were scanned—seven adults and three juveniles. No weapons were detected, and no charges were laid. Other Brisbane locations, such as Chermside and Westfield Mt Gravatt, recorded multiple detections, in contrast to Toowong.
Overview of Police Powers Under Jack’s Law
The Making Jack’s Law Permanent Act 2025 amended the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000, granting Queensland Police authority to conduct random scans in shopping centres, transport stations, entertainment venues, and other public places. Officers may also seek approval to scan in non-designated locations for up to 12 hours. This shift marks a significant increase in police search powers, removing the prior requirement for reasonable suspicion.
Community and Expert Perspectives
The expanded law has received mixed responses. Some academics and legal experts expressed concern over the low rate of weapon detection and the potential for misuse, noting that only 2.4 per cent of scanned individuals were charged with weapons offences between January and March 2025. Others cautioned that the law may lead to discriminatory practices. Police maintain the primary purpose is deterrence, and that the removal of more than 1,100 weapons under the law indicates success.
Future Implications for Toowong
Although no weapons were found at Toowong Village, its inclusion in the wanding operation reflects the broader application of Jack’s Law across all public areas in Queensland. The ongoing implementation of these powers suggests continued surveillance in shopping centres and similar venues, with future outcomes dependent on ongoing data and public safety assessments.
Published 29-July-2025
