Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that this is the second petition calling for stronger self-defence laws and is being launched to demonstrate to the incoming government that Queenslanders overwhelmingly support the introduction of Castle Law. 

Queenslanders do not feel safe in their own homes knowing that offenders have more rights than occupants. Every Queenslander deserves the right to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property. Currently, in Queensland if a person chooses to defend themselves or others during a home invasion they may only use force that is reasonably necessary in all of the circumstances. What is reasonable in all of the circumstances is open to a broad interpretation. Homeowners who carry out self-defence may end up facing criminal charges such as assault, or in extreme cases, murder.

The current self-defence laws are inadequate and force victims to second-guess their actions when faced with a split-second, life-threatening situation. Good laws should be in place to protect good people. Introducing Castle Law in Queensland would give victims the right to use whatever force necessary to protect themselves, others within the premises and their property if faced with an intruder(s). Castle Law (or the Castle Doctrine) is a principle grounded in the fundamental right to self-defence. A Queenslander’s home is their castle.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to do all in its power to legislate Castle Law in Queensland.