A Fresh Start for Queensland: Prosecutors get $6M to reduce DNA backlog as former FBI expert joins FSQ review
- Crisafulli Government boosts funding for Director of Public Prosecutions to tackle cases backlogged by Labor's DNA debacle.
- Delivery of 100 Day Plan commitment will see the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions handling all DNA-related matters to deliver Faster Justice for victims.
- Announcement comes as Crisafulli Government also appoints renowned geneticist and former FBI expert Dr Bruce Budowle to Forensic Science Queensland review.
The Crisafulli Government has announced $6 million to bolster the capacity of the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure cases backlogged by Labor's DNA Lab Debacle can be finalised sooner.
This announcement delivers on a key commitment of the 100 Day Plan and ensures the Government will deliver faster justice for victims.
The funding will ensure Crown prosecutors have the resources to now assess and resolve specific DNA-related matters in the Magistrates Court, with the work previously undertaken by Queensland Police Service.
The transfer of callover cases from QPS to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will allow for the earlier consideration of the necessity of DNA analysis by more experienced prosecutors, so matters can be resolved more quickly.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said victims would always be put first under the Crisafulli Government.
"Under Labor, victims were left in limbo, and they deserve so much better. We are talking about real cases, real people – and under the Crisafulli Government, a real solution to Labor's DNA Debacle," the Attorney-General said.
"The former government dodged questions and delayed justice for years. Finally, today, victims can see progress is being made.
"This is what our courts have been calling for and what victims are demanding – and we are delivering this funding boost, as we promised, as a key part of our 100 Day Plan."
In a further move to fix Labor's DNA Debacle, the Crisafulli Government has also announced the appointment of former FBI expert and renowned geneticist, Dr Bruce Budowle, to its Forensic Science Queensland review.
The Attorney-General said Dr Budowle's appointment was in addition to the work being undertaken by esteemed forensic biologist Dr Kirsty Wright, in a review launched the first week the Crisafulli Government was sworn in.
"Dr Wright and Dr Budowle have unmatched expertise to provide recommendations that deliver Faster Justice for victims and restore public confidence in forensic testing. I know, that in undertaking this review, they will leave no stone unturned," she said.
Dr Bruce Budowle said he was ready to begin work immediately, following his appointment.
"I have been closely following what has been happening in the forensic science area in Queensland and I would like to acknowledge the work that has already been undertaken by Dr Wright on this review," Dr Budowle said.
"I am pleased to be asked to contribute and I look forward to sharing recommendations that not only support best practice in forensic science but also support victims."
Both Dr Budowle and Dr Wright are expected to provide their final reports to the Government in mid-2025.
