As Queensland expands police powers under Jack’s Law, officers at Westfield Mount Gravatt charged three people with weapons offences during a recent knife detection operation.
Wanding at Shopping Centres Shows Mixed Results
Between January and March 2025, police used handheld metal detectors to scan 75 people at Westfield Mount Gravatt as part of a state-wide effort to reduce knife crime. Of those scanned, 44 were juveniles, and three people were charged under the Weapons Act, with additional charges laid under the Drugs Misuse Act.
Though only a few charges were filed, the rate of weapons-related offences at this location was higher than the state average of 2.4%. The operation took place under permanent Queensland laws that allow police to scan individuals in public areas without a warrant or specific suspicion.
The scanning initiative is part of what’s commonly known as Jack’s Law, which began as a trial in 2023 following the death of teenager Jack Beasley and has since been expanded statewide.
Gold Coast Remains a Focus for Weapon-Related Offences
While Westfield Mount Gravatt recorded some weapons activity, the most serious results came from high-traffic Gold Coast areas. At Surfers Paradise’s Safe Night Precinct, police detected 27 weapons between January and March, with hotspots like Broadbeach South tram stop and Logan Hyperdome bus stop also reporting high numbers.
Criminologist Professor Janet Ransley advised focusing policing efforts on known trouble zones rather than low-risk areas. Police data supports this, suggesting offenders may be using public transport, especially trams, to move weapons into busy districts. Meanwhile, Brisbane’s city precincts showed fewer weapons but more drug-related offences.
Law Expanded Despite Low Weapon Strike Rate
Although weapon finds remain low overall, the Queensland government has made wanding laws permanent. From July 18, 2025, police can scan people in high-risk public areas without senior approval, while lower-risk areas can be authorised for up to 12 hours. Critics argue most charges relate to drugs, not weapons, raising concerns about the law’s scope.
Police say the goal is prevention, removing knives before harm occurs. Police Minister Dan Purdie and the Beasley family, who pushed for reform, have both voiced strong support for the changes.
Young People and Community Impact
The high number of juveniles scanned at Mount Gravatt reflects a focus on youth in public spaces like shopping centres. Police are required to conduct scans respectfully and non-invasively, and most individuals at the site were cooperative.
Still, civil liberties advocates argue the practice may unfairly target young people, particularly males. Despite low charge rates, police maintain the operations are effective, noting that removing even one weapon could save a life.
Published 25-July-2025
