Currently, the Special Circumstances Court Diversion Program, a voluntary program for people charged with summary offences, is in place.

However, de Groot said “how can people volunteer if they don’t know they have an issue?”

“What we’re asking for are diversion programs that identify these issues much earlier so the person involved can understand and make the connection between their action and its unintended consequences,” he said.

VIEW ALL

QLS also called for assistance for the accused and their family through court processes and in accessing mental health services.

Attorney-General Paul Lucas said the ALP was committed to introducing legislation for magistrates to consider taking into account of their assessment of a defendant, orders of the Mental Health Court – an expert tribunal constituted by a Supreme Court judge assisted by two psychiatrists.

Shadow Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie said the LNP was receptive to the need for greater assistance for the accused and their family through the court processes.

De Groot said firm commitments from each party were needed to ensure better treatment of people in the criminal justice system who suffer from mental health issues.