Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has publicly affirmed his confidence in two government ministers facing scrutiny over their portfolios, even as a police investigation into a third minister continues without a public update. The Premier addressed these matters on Sunday following the announcement of a new six-year agreement to host the Anzac Day rugby union Tests in Brisbane.
Ministers Under Pressure
The ministers in question are those responsible for child safety and youth justice. Reports surfaced on Saturday detailing allegations that children in state care were sleeping on the floor in child safety service centers. This situation has arisen alongside claims that a provider involved in a key government program may have misused public funds.
Youth Justice Minister’s Actions
Youth Justice Minister Laura Gerber informed Queensland’s parliament on Friday that her department has referred Namu Collective, the provider in question, to several authorities. These include the state’s corruption watchdog, the police, the federal corporate regulator, and the Australian Taxation Office. The “staying on track” program, a flagship initiative, has been under investigation for months regarding its provider and complex corporate structure, which reportedly links back to a New Zealand-based entity focused on combining profit with social purpose.
This development follows inconsistencies in statements made by Minister Gerber and her department concerning the selection process for new “crime prevention schools.” An earlier procurement round for these schools was reportedly cancelled. Furthermore, a provider in Cairns, engaged for a “regional reset” program, had its funding terminated by the government earlier this month, with officials citing a failure to meet contractual obligations – a claim disputed by the organization itself.
Premier’s Confidence in Minister Gerber
When questioned about his confidence in Minister Gerber’s capacity to manage the early-intervention programs central to his government’s election platform, Premier Crisafulli responded affirmatively. “Very much so,” he stated, adding, “I think she’s handled it perfectly.” The Premier declined to comment on whether he believed there were systemic issues with the department’s procurement practices.
Child Safety System Challenges
Premier Crisafulli also indicated that he had sought an urgent briefing on child safety matters, which were brought to the government’s attention by the Together Union earlier in the month. Speaking to reporters on Saturday in Townsville, he committed to this briefing. However, after flying back to Brisbane on Sunday, he noted that he had not yet received the update.
“I want Queenslanders to know how serious we are about fixing the child safety system. It is broken and residential care is at the heart of how bad the system is – there’s a reason why we call the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry,” Premier Crisafulli stated. He emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the deep-seated problems within the child safety framework.
Child Safety Minister Under Scrutiny
Child Safety Minister Amanda Camm has also faced criticism, primarily from the Labor opposition. Her handling of the Unify IT rollout and the decision to shorten the child safety inquiry have drawn particular attention. Additionally, she has been questioned regarding her relationship with former cabinet colleague Tim Mander, who was stood aside.
When asked on Sunday about his continued faith in Minister Camm, Premier Crisafulli echoed his earlier sentiment, responding, “Very much so.”
Ongoing Police Probe
Separately, a federal police investigation into Tim Mander’s electoral enrolment, which prompted the first significant cabinet alteration since the 2024 election, remains ongoing. As of Friday, no public update has been provided regarding the status of this probe. There is speculation within Liberal National Party (LNP) circles that the prolonged nature of this investigation could necessitate a broader cabinet reshuffle.
The Premier’s statements underscore a commitment to addressing the challenges within his government’s portfolios while maintaining support for his ministerial team amidst ongoing investigations and public scrutiny.
