Amy Remeikis reports in the Brisbane Times (4.4.16) on the outcome of the review of the Newman Government’s VLAD anti-bikie laws, conducted by retired judge Alan Wilson. The Premier and Attorney-General have agreed with the review’s findings that the laws were an over-reach, and have indicated that the supporting legislation will be overhauled.
‘The Newman Government’s hallmark bikie sentencing law, the Vicious Lawless Association Disestablishment Act, “should be repealed in its entirety” a taskforce set up to investigate the legislation has found, recommending a “workable” model that combats “all forms of serious crime” be put in its place.
‘Led by retired Justice Alan Wilson, and already dismissed by the LNP before it was released, the review’s 416-page report recommended the bulk of the laws that made up the bikie laws, including VLAD, a sentencing act, and the anti-association laws themselves, be either repealed or overhauled.
‘The taskforce warned the 2013 laws would not stand up to a full challenge in the High Court and that it was only a matter of time before that challenge came.
‘In essence, it recommended Queensland review the laws other states have used to combat organised crime and create new legislation that would withstand legal challenges.’