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Questions On Notice Questions on notice are usually asked when a more detailed answer is required and are in writing, and are forwarded by the Clerk of the Parliament to the relevant Minister who prepares a written answer which is presented to Parliament.
MR LAWLOR asked the Minister for Police and Corrective Services (MS SPENCE) |
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| Posted by Administrator (admin) on May 11 2004 |
| Questions On Notice >> |
ANSWER:
The anti-hoon legislation came into force on 4 November 2002.
The Police Powers and Responsibilities Amendment Bill 2002 includes provisions to empower police officers to confiscate vehicles used for hooning in the first instance for a period of 48 hours, following the commencement of proceedings against the driver.
In instances of repeat offenders, the new provisions will enable courts to make orders to allow for impoundment of a vehicle for up to 3 months after a second offence and possible forfeiture of a vehicle to the State after a third or subsequent offence.
The laws also allow police to issue directions to the driver of a vehicle to cease using sound equipment for 12 hours where the noise created is considered excessive. A failure to comply with the direction could result in the equipment being confiscated for 24 hours and prosecution for failure to comply with the direction.
The laws were designed to make the roads safer, aid in the preservation of public safety and place reasonable checks on noisy vehicles which disturb the peace. The new laws have delivered a tough but fair response to the problem of hooning.
As at 24 May 2004, a total of 380 vehicles had been seized within South Eastern Region. Of these, 281 vehicles were seized in the Gold Coast Police District and 99 vehicles were seized in Logan Police District. In each case, court proceedings were initiated against the owner and/or driver of the vehicle.
The Queensland Police Service does not maintain statistics in relation to convictions. However, it does monitor and review all failed prosecutions. While a number of matters are still before the Courts, to date only one seizure in the Gold Coast Police District has resulted in a failed prosecution.
This is a very positive outcome for members of the Gold Coast community, and shows the anti-hoon legislation is being frequently and effectively utilised by the Queensland Police Service. The Government remains committed to initiatives that support and contribute to strategic road safety priorities. Last changed: [PUBLISHED_DATE] at 12:00 AM
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