Tough New Laws Target Crime And Antisocial Behaviour In Mackay

Tough new laws targeting crime and antisocial behaviour will expand police powers in Mackay’s CBD precincts to help protect local businesses and improve community safety. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A suite of new laws aimed at tackling youth crime, drug offences and antisocial behaviour is set to roll out across Queensland, with Mackay identified as a key focus area.

The Government has passed the Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Antisocial Behaviour Bill 2026, introducing tougher penalties for serious offences and expanded powers for police.

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Under the changes, 12 new offences have been added to the Adult Crime, Adult Time framework, bringing the total number of applicable offences to 45. The legislation also includes significant drug reforms and the introduction of Designated Business and Community Precincts, designed to help police better manage antisocial behaviour in high-risk areas.

Mackay is one of four priority locations selected for the new precincts, which will allow police to move on offenders and provide greater protection for local businesses, workers and families.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the reforms would deliver much-needed support to the region.

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“These laws are about restoring safety in Mackay and backing our local businesses who have been doing it tough,” Mr Dalton said.

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“For too long, businesses across Mackay have been targets of repeat offending and antisocial behaviour, and that has real impacts on jobs, confidence and our local economy.

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“Businesses like Kawasaki have unfortunately been frequent targets in the past, and that’s why these stronger police powers and tougher laws are so important.

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“Our community deserves to feel safe when they go to work, shop in the CBD, or spend time with their families, and these laws will help make that happen.

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“The Government is delivering exactly what we promised — stronger laws, better support for police, and real action to turn the tide on youth crime.”

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The expanded list of offences under Adult Crime, Adult Time includes serious crimes such as aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm, conspiring to murder, unlawful stalking and intimidation, riot, indecent treatment of a child under 16, choking or strangulation in a domestic setting, and administering poison with intent to harm.

Alongside tougher penalties, the legislation introduces a new Illicit Drug Enforcement and Diversion Framework, which aims to balance enforcement with rehabilitation by ensuring offenders face consequences while offering support pathways for low-risk cases.

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The government says the reforms are already contributing to a decline in crime, with a reported 7.2 per cent drop in the number of victims in 2025, and expects the new measures to further strengthen community safety across Queensland.

With enhanced police powers set to be implemented in Mackay’s CBD and surrounding precincts, the changes are intended to deter repeat offenders, reduce antisocial behaviour and restore confidence for businesses and the wider community.

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