Jack’s Law: Police Handheld Weapons Detection Powers Explained
In early 2023, the Queensland Government passed new legislation granting police expanded powers to use handheld metal detection devices in certain public spaces. Known as Jack’s Law, the legislation was introduced following the tragic death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley on the Gold Coast in 2019.
The law has attracted significant public and media attention, particularly in discussions around youth justice, civil liberties, and public safety. In this article, we break down what Jack’s Law is, how it operates in practice, and what your rights are if you’re stopped by police under its powers.
Who Was Jack Beasley?
Jack Beasley was fatally stabbed in Surfers Paradise in December 2019. His death sparked public outcry and a renewed push to address the presence of knives and other weapons among young people in public areas. The legislation that followed was championed by Jack’s family, who have since worked tirelessly to raise awareness through the Jack Beasley Foundation.
Jack’s Law is named in his honour and is aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
What Does Jack’s Law Allow?
Jack’s Law amends the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld) and gives Queensland Police the authority to use handheld metal detectors (wanding devices) in designated areas without a warrant or reasonable suspicion.
These powers are known legally as “stop and wand” powers.
Under Jack’s Law, police can:
- Stop a person in a designated area (called a wanding area)
- Use a handheld scanner to detect metal objects on a person’s body or possessions
- Require a person to remove outer clothing (e.g. jackets, hats) for scanning
- Ask for cooperation in scanning bags or personal items
- Seize any weapons or prohibited items found during the scan
Importantly, police do not need reasonable suspicion to use these powers. That means you can be randomly stopped and scanned in a wanding area, even if you’re not behaving suspiciously.
Where Can Police Use These Powers?
Jack’s Law allows police to use stop and wand powers in the following settings:
Prescribed areas, such as:
- Safe Night Precincts (SNPs) like Surfers Paradise, Fortitude Valley, and Cairns CBD
- Public transport stations and adjacent areas
- Entertainment precincts during designated hours
Declared areas during special events or high-risk times — for example:
- Music festivals
- School leaver events (e.g. Schoolies Week)
- Sporting matches or large public gatherings
These areas are usually publicly notified in advance and signage is often displayed. However, a lack of signage does not automatically invalidate a search.
What Are Your Rights If You’re Stopped?
If you’re approached by police under Jack’s Law, it’s important to understand both your obligations and protections.
You must:
- Stop when directed
- Allow the use of a handheld scanning device
- Comply with reasonable instructions (e.g. removing jackets, placing items on the ground)
Failure to comply may result in:
- A fine or
- Arrest and charges for obstructing police
You are entitled to:
- Be treated respectfully and with dignity
- Have the process explained to you
- Ask if you are being detained or free to go after the scan
- Decline to answer questions beyond your name and address (unless under separate investigation)
Importantly, the wanding device is non-invasive and does not require physical contact. You cannot be searched more thoroughly (e.g. pat-down or bag search) unless police form a reasonable suspicion based on what the scanner detects.
What Happens If They Find a Knife or Weapon?
If police detect a prohibited item — including knives, knuckle dusters, screwdrivers, or other potential weapons — you may face summary charges under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) or related offences such as:
- Possessing a knife in a public place or school
- Failing to comply with police directions
- Possession of a dangerous article
You may also be refused entry to venues, issued with a ban notice, or in some cases, detained for further questioning.
Convictions for weapons offences can result in fines, community service, or even imprisonment, especially if the item was concealed or connected to another offence.
Concerns About Civil Liberties
While Jack’s Law has been broadly supported by community and government groups, it has also raised concerns among civil rights organisations.
Critics argue that:
- The removal of the “reasonable suspicion” threshold could lead to over-policing or discriminatory practices
- Young people and culturally diverse communities may be disproportionately targeted
- There is a risk of mission creep — where the use of these powers expands beyond their original scope
Police are required to record the use of wanding powers, including how often they’re used and in what locations, with oversight from the Queensland Police Service and Parliamentary Committees.
Still, it’s important to be aware that legal boundaries are being tested, and rights-based challenges may emerge in the future.
What If You’re Charged?
If you’re charged with a weapons offence following a wand search:
- Do not panic — being charged is not the same as being convicted
- Do not give a statement to police without legal advice
- Contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately to assess your options
- Preserve any evidence that may help your defence — including messages, receipts, or witness accounts
- Do not breach bail conditions, if imposed
At Cridland & Hua, we regularly represent clients facing charges arising from wanding operations and police searches. We can help you navigate the legal process, protect your record, and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Final Thoughts
Jack’s Law represents a major shift in how Queensland approaches public safety, particularly in nightlife and entertainment precincts. While the goal is to reduce knife violence, the practical effect is that police now have greater powers to stop and scan people in public without any suspicion of wrongdoing.
For the public, especially young people, it’s essential to know your rights and how to respond calmly if stopped. For anyone facing charges under this legislation, seeking experienced legal representation can make all the difference.
If you’ve been scanned, charged, or issued a police notice under Jack’s Law — or if you’re unsure of your rights — contact Cridland & Hua for clear, expert legal advice.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal help tailored to your situation, speak with one of our criminal defence lawyers.
