It seems the so-called Victims’ Commissioner needs to scrub up on the definition of victim, because in my book home invaders are not victims, Leader of the KAP and state Member for Traeger Robbie Katter has said.
Despite the Victims’ Commissioner’s remit to be “advocating for victims’ rights” and providing advice on “improvements to policy, practices, procedures and systems to uphold the rights of victims and better meet their needs,” the Commissioner has failed to support Castle Law.
“In what world does a Victims’ Commissioner side with Criminals?” the KAP leader asked.
“I mean, I can accept that the legal fraternity will come out with every technical argument to say the law is adequate, but to have the Victims’ Commissioner refuse to back a bill that puts victims first and provides a clear deterrent to criminals? You can’t make this stuff up!
“The Commissioner even notes that victim advocates have told the Commission there is a need for clarity about how Queenslanders can lawfully defend themselves to home invasion. Well, here it is – Castle Law.
The KAP leader reflected on some of the horrific stories of crime victims.
“All these do-gooders and defenders of the status quo need to get out of their offices and listen to what victims of home invasions are experiencing,” Mr Katter said.
“Multiple windows smashed, cars destroyed, and a family inside wondering how they can legally defend themselves.
“Or a homeowner who defends his property after repeated thefts being charged and having to spend tens of thousands of dollars on lawyers to keep himself out of jail, while the criminals are let off. Where’s the justice?
“The Commission tries to say there’s ‘limited’ evidence that the current provisions are deficient. Well sorry Commissioner, you are obviously not listening.
“Ask the 113,000 Queenslanders who signed the KAP petition. Ask the almost 800 individuals who took the time to put in a submission calling for Castle Law. Ask the Voice for Victims Foundation. They’ll tell you that Queenslanders do not feel safe and are screaming out for a real deterrent to home invaders.
“Better yet, defund the Victims’ Commissioner, and fund grassroots organisations like Voice for Victims who are clearly more in touch with reality!” the KAP leader said.