The LNP has today introduced a Bill which would guarantee all convicted child killers spend at least 15 to 25 years behind bars.
In stark contrast with Labor’s weak legislation, the LNP’s Mason Jett Lee laws would deliver the toughest sentences in Australia for those who kill children through violence or neglect.
The LNP Bill was drafted following the death of Caboolture toddler Mason Jett Lee, who died in agony over several days after being savagely beaten by his step-father.
LNP Leader Deb Frecklington said only mandatory minimum sentences would prevent killers from seeking plea bargains and reduced prison time.
“Labor’s legislation will just tinker at the edges of a system that is tipped too heavily in favour of offenders,” Ms Frecklington said.
“There is no crime more despicable than killing a child. The LNP’s Mason Jett Lee laws would deliver real justice for child victims and their devastated families.”
The Bill moved by Shadow Attorney-General David Janetzki would introduce a new offence of child homicide, with a mandatory 15-year jail penalty.
The Bill would also increase the minimum non-parole period for the murder of a child under 18 from 20 to 25 years.
Mr Janetzki said the proposed child homicide offence would target those who kill through violence, sexual assault or neglect.
Accidental deaths, such as drownings, would not be captured under the offence – despite Labor’s false claims otherwise.
“Labor’s legislation is a tricky legal fix that will fail child victims,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Relying on a ‘reckless indifference’ clause has not worked in New South Wales, where many evil child killers have still received soft sentences.
“Only the LNP will guarantee that child killers receive a minimum of 15 years imprisonment.”
Shadow Minister for Women and patron of child justice campaign group Act for Mason Ros Bates said the LNP’s legislation had been drafted after listening to the grieving families of lost children.
“The system is failing to protect our precious kids and failing to properly punish child killers,” Ms Bates said.
“Kids can’t fight back – that’s why the LNP is determined to protect them.
“Labor won’t deliver the stronger sentences that justice demands – but the LNP will.”
