Following member input, the Queensland Law Society Call to Parties Statement has been released to the major election participants with the issues that Queensland Law Society and its members see as crucial to the future of Queensland.
It seeks their views in terms of the policies in their election platforms for the Queensland state election, which is due to be held on 31 October.
This Call to Parties Statement, prepared by the QLS legal policy team in consultation with QLS legal policy committees, encompasses several major issues, including advancing the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, responding to domestic and family violence in the community and supporting older and vulnerable Queenslanders, while a major focus is on rebuilding the Queensland economy in the wake of COVID-19.
The statement advocates for micro-economic reforms to support Queensland businesses, not-for-profit organisations and individuals.
“As Queensland deals with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that everyone participating in the economy is supported to ensure a successful and speedy economic and social recovery,” it says.
The proposed reforms aim to modernise document execution, improve transaction processes, streamline regulation, support consumers and encourage investment in Queensland.
In terms of micro-economic reforms, the Call to Parties Statement seeks a commitment from the political parties to 13 proposals, including:
- maintaining public ownership of the Queensland Titles Registry
- a comprehensive review of the Justices Act 1886, seen as essential to creating a modern criminal justice system
- evaluation of measures introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure those with lasting benefit are retained
- facilitating the use of electronic signatures by corporations and individuals
- a draft of a modernised Property Law Act, to ultimately replace the Property Law Act 1974
- reform of the Duties Act 2001 in several areas
- reduce compliance obligations on charities and not for profits by working with the Commonwealth to progress a nationally-consistent approach to fundraising regulation
- release of an updated consultation draft of the Trusts Act 1973 for consultation with stakeholders
- an expert review of the Succession Act 1981 with a view to publishing a discussion paper.
Members are invited to read the Call to Parties Statement here.
One Response
Could we please also seek a commitment from both parties to a permanent Supreme Court judge based at Southport on the Gold Coast. We have the facilities here yet litigants are forced to undertake an expensive return trip to Brisbane for all Supreme Court matters.