Policy positions

We work on the issues that matter the most to the Queensland legal sector.   We involve many people to make sure our policy positions reflect our sector's views. All our policy positions are decided through rigorous consultation and evidence gathering.

You can find our published position papers below. Any questions, please email us.

Children and young people

QLS has been a long term advocate on youth justice and child protection issues. This policy position sets out the perspectives of and commitments made by the QLS regarding these issues. 

Read more

Evidence-based policy

QLS is committed to evidence-based policy. Evidence-based policy is public policy informed by rigorously established objective evidence. It is premised on the fact that law must well founded, just, workable and subject to consultation. 

Read more

Mandatory sentencing

QLS has maintained a long term stance against any form of mandatory sentencing. The position outlines QLS’ support for the fundamental principles of Australia’s legal system including procedural fairness, judicial precedent, rule of law and the separation of powers. QLS also highlights concerns surrounding the disproportionate impact of mandatory sentencing on minorities and the importance of public education to increase public confidence in sentencing decisions.

Read more

Human Rights

This policy statement summarises the key commitments made by the QLS regarding the implementation of human rights laws. QLS adopts the policy statement on Human Rights as a framework for its policy activities in relation to human rights, especially in evaluating the substantive merit of legislation, policy and implementation.

More information

Access to justice

In this policy position QLS makes a commitment to advocate for fair, transparent, effective and non-discriminatory and accountable services to promote access to justice for all people. To do so, QLS supports greater funding to the legal assistance sector, better resourcing of courts and tribunals, accessible legal information and education, the use of technology to improve accessibility and greater use of dispute resolution where appropriate. 

More information