Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced sweeping reform and tougher penalties to address youth crime in the wake of the shocking death of a Queensland mother on Boxing Day.

She denied the government had come up with the measures overnight after facing pressure from the public, saying that the measures have been in the pipeline for some time.

“The time for action is now,” she said.

Responding to public outcry after the death of 41-year-old mother Emma Lovell in North Lakes on Monday night, the Premier described it as a “tragedy that has gripped this state”.

“This is a comprehensive suite of reforms that is addressing a very prevalent issue.”

Key points:

• Youth Justice Act amendment requiring courts to consider bail history, criminal activity & track record in sentencing –
• New penalties for criminals who boast about offences on social media
• Extreme high-visibility police patrols – $9.89 million for fast-tracked sentencing programs
• New maximum penalty for car theft (from 7 years to 10 years jail)
• New penalty of 14yrs jail if offence is at night, while armed, is in company or threatens property damage
• Two new youth detention facilities
• A trial of engine immobilisation programs in Mt Isa, Cairns & Townsville
• Appointment of QPS A/C George Marchesini to the new Youth Crime Taskforce Commander

Police Minister Mark Ryan says they will be amongst the toughest laws in the country.

The Wellcamp facility will not be turned into a specialised youth detention facility, the Premier reiterated.

Image: Annastacia Palaszczuk/Twitter