Crime victims down 4% but Queensland rate hits 20-year high
Queensland crime victims fell 4% in 2025, but the overall crime rate remains at a 20-year high despite strict new laws.
Queensland recorded about 12,000 fewer victims of crime in 2025 than the year before, a drop of around 4 per cent. Experts warn the overall crime rate is still at a 20-year high.
The LNP government has passed three laws since coming to power about two years ago. The adult crime laws allow juveniles charged with serious crimes to face adult sentences.
More than 7,000 young people have been charged under these laws. Criminologist Terry Goldsworthy says the victim drop is more likely due to better police targeting, tougher bail laws and a focus on serious repeat offenders.
It's not due to the adult crime laws themselves. He says the reduction started during the Labor government's final year.
Overall crime remains a major concern.
- 4 per cent
- Victim reduction
- More than 7,000
- Young people charged under laws
- 20-year high
- Crime rate milestone
Why it mattersPremier David Crisafulli promised two years ago to quit if he failed to reduce crime victims, adding a per-capita qualifier as he won election. The data shows modest progress but experts remain skeptical the government's flagship policy is driving change.
AustraliaQueenslanders still face crime rates not seen in two decades. For victims, the debate over what works, tough sentences versus better policing, shapes whether they feel safer in their communities.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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