1. Purpose
To conduct an independent and transparent review into the systemic failures of the previous government in the management and oversight of the Parole Board Queensland. The review will assess whether the Board’s operations effectively support community safety and the rights of victims and will deliver targeted recommendations for legislative and operational reform.
2. Background
The Crisafulli Government is committed to restoring safety where you live, and the Parole Board plays a vital role in delivering this. An effective parole system contributes to community safety by offering a supervised pathway for offenders leaving correctional centres.
The Board has had two reviews since commencing operations in 2017. These reviews were not publicly released, and they did not seek input from victims.
In January 2024, following the mismanagement and systemic failures highlighted by victims of crime, a commitment was made to conduct an independent review into whether the Board’s operations are efficient, including the Board’s contact with victims of crime when considering applications for parole.
3. Scope of the review
The review will look at the Parole Board to identify ways to improve the operations and conduct of the Board. It will focus on:
- The rights, participation, and treatment of victims within the parole process.
- The practices, procedures, decision-making structures and efficiency of the Board.
- The historical failures in governance, oversight and victim engagement under the previous government.
- The alignment of Parole Board operations with legislation and broader criminal justice priorities in promoting community safety.
- Any other matters relevant to the review referred by the Minister.
4. Objectives of the review
This review will:
- Consider the impact on victims of crime
- Evaluate the adequacy of the Victims Register.
- Assess barriers preventing victims from participating fully in the parole process.
- Analyse the Parole Board’s engagement with victims of crime.
- Identify improvements to enhance victims’ rights and support throughout the parole process
- Assess the Parole Board’s practices and procedures
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- Identify the composition of the Parole Board in decision making processes, including the information the Board relies on to make decisions.
- Review the efficiency and effectiveness of parole board structures, identifying efficiency gains where practicable.
- Evaluate the alignment of Board processes with legislation and the broader criminal justice system, including to reduce duplication.
- Identify deficiencies and targeted improvements.
5. Methodology
The review will adopt a concise and evidence-based approach, including:
- Document reviews
- Comparative analysis
- Engagement with victims and key stakeholders
6. Deliverables
The review is expected to deliver:
- A draft report within 70 days of commencement.
- A final report within 90 days of commencement.
The final report will include clear findings and recommendations for legislative and systemic reform.
7. Reporting and accountability
The reviewer will report directly to the Minister for Corrective Services. The review will balance confidentiality requirements with a commitment to transparency, ensuring sensitive information is managed appropriately. The report will be released publicly.
8. Resourcing
Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) will provide secretariat support and QCS and the Parole Board will ensure access to all necessary documentation and personnel for the review.
9. Outcomes
The review will assess the operations of the Parole Board, expose historical failures, and provide targeted recommendations to improve efficiency, strengthen legislation, and enhance community safety and the rights of victims.