In a swift and resounding response to escalating concerns over personal safety and rising youth crime rates, a parliamentary petition advocating for the introduction of the Criminal Code (Defence of Dwellings and Other Premises—Castle Law) Amendment Bill 2024 has garnered over 12,000 signatures in a week.
The bill is a legislative proposal aimed at amending existing laws to provide legal protections for individuals who use force to defend their dwellings and other premises.
The term “castle law” generally refers to legal provisions that allow individuals to use force, including deadly force if necessary, to defend their homes against intruders or attackers.
The swift momentum gained by the petition coincides with a noticeable uptick in youth-related offences in south-west Brisbane.
Recent statistics reveal a concerning trend, with a notable increase in crimes involving young perpetrators.
Incidents ranging from property offences to violent crimes have prompted widespread apprehension among residents, fuelling calls for robust legal measures to curb delinquent behaviour.
Led by Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader Nick Dametto, the petition highlights a rise in public support for legislative action to empower individuals to defend themselves and their properties.
Mr Dametto emphasised the fundamental human right to protect oneself and loved ones from harm, particularly within the sanctity of their home.
“The overwhelming response to the Castle Law petition reflects a deep-seated concern among Queenslanders regarding their security and autonomy,” Mr Dametto said.
“People are feeling abandoned by the State Government’s inability to address the root causes of crime effectively.
The Castle Law Bill provides reassurance that individuals can act decisively in moments of peril, utilising necessary force without fear of legal repercussions.”
He urged Queenslanders to voice their support for the Castle Law Bill, emphasising the collective responsibility to prioritise community welfare over criminal interests.
“I strongly urge all Queenslanders who support the Castle Law Bill to make sure their views are heard,” he said.
“Together, we can send a clear message to the parliament, our lawmakers, that the community must come first and if that means some criminals come off second best then so be it.”
