Review of particular criminal defences
Review update
On 1 December 2025 we delivered our final report and recommendations to the Attorney-General.
The report reflects our research and legal analysis. It also reflects the findings of our extensive engagement with stakeholders across the justice sector and community.
The next step is for the report to be tabled in Parliament. Once tabled, we look forward to sharing our review findings and recommendations.
Our review
On 15 November 2023 the Queensland Government asked us to examine and make recommendations about particular defences in the Criminal Code:
- self-defence
- provocation as a defence to assault
- provocation as a partial defence to murder
- the partial defence to murder of killing for preservation in an abusive domestic relationship, and
- domestic discipline.
Meetings and forums
Thank you to those who attended consultation meetings in Cairns, Yarrabah, Townsville, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Mt Isa, Cloncurry and Central Queensland.
Terms of Reference
The terms of reference from the Attorney-General are available for download.
Project timeline
The review started on 15 November 2023.
We released a series of background papers to provide information on topics relevant to the review and prompt discussion.
On 20 February 2025, we released our consultation paper. It included questions for consultation and asked for submissions.
Our final report and recommendations were delivered to the Attorney-General on 1 December 2025.
More information
If you would like more information on the criminal defences review, email: qlrc-criminaldefence@justice.qld.gov.au .
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