Overview
The 2022 Sofronoff Commission of Inquiry (COI) made at least eight recommendations relating to groups of cases requiring review; the 2023 Bennett Commission of Inquiry expanded the scope of one of these recommendations.
Historical case review process
All major crime cases analysed by FSQ (or its earlier iteration Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services) between 1 September 2007 to 30 April 2023 will be subject to the historical case review process.
FSQ will not need to retest samples from all cases. Retesting will only occur in cases where different DNA results could affect the outcome of a police investigation or court case. All cases will be reviewed in line with the Historical Case Review Principles, which were agreed between stakeholders and endorsed by FSQ’s Interim Advisory Board in June 2024.
Historical cases will initially be reviewed by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) or Queensland Police Service (QPS) and only cases where different DNA results could affect the outcome of a police investigation or court case will be forwarded to FSQ for a scientific review.
The scientific review will consider whether, and what, further testing, analysis or interpretation is appropriate in a case. The results of these analyses will then be reported to QPS.
Key statistics
FSQ has determined that 41,077 cases fall within the scope of historical case review process.
Approximately 7,622 cases have been reviewed by the ODPP, QPS or FSQ.
Approximately 6,541 cases have been reviewed and determined that no further work is required.
Approximately 1,081 cases have been identified for scientific review, of which 779 case are in progress or have been completed.
As at November 5, 2024
Further information
For more information call the QPS hotline 1300 993 191.
Office of the Victims’ Commissioner
The Office of the Victims’ Commissioner can connect you with support services. They also hear complaints about public organisations who deal with violent crimes.
Last updated: November 2024