Queensland [Australia], October 11: A forensic science lab that sparked two inquiries will receive millions in funding from the Liberal National Party as part of an election pitch to address a backlog of cases.
Opposition Leader David Crisafulli has pledged $21.5 million to "bolster" the justice system and deal with a backlog of cases at the troubled lab.
Queensland's beleaguered Forensic and Science Services lab has been the subject of two full-scale inquiries into its operations since issues were first raised following the death of Shandee Blackburn.
The 23-year-old was stabbed more than 20 times on her way home from work in Mackay in 2013.
In 2022, the lab was put under the microscope after the Queensland Police Service raised questions about existing DNA thresholds preventing evidence processing.
The first inquiry found many DNA samples went untested and the lab incorrectly ruled others insufficient.
A backlog of 37,000 cases dating back to 2007 was impacted by testing issues and would need to be reviewed, the inquiry found.
A second inquiry in 2023 unearthed an automated DNA extraction method used from 2007 to 2016, known as Project 13, yielded up to 92 per cent less DNA than the manual technique.
The failure might have led to offenders escaping conviction across nine years.
Shandee's mother, Vicki Blackburn, said victims were still waiting for the caseload to be addressed.
"This has been going on for nearly 20 years - some of these victims have been waiting for justice," an emotional Ms Blackburn told reporters.
"It's the first time in 11 years I have seen a comprehensive plan that has the ability to deliver that justice to those people."
Mr Crisafulli said $12 million would go towards the director of public prosecutions, with half of that injected into dealing with the DNA backlog.
"The failings at the DNA debacle has just rocked the justice system in this state," Mr Crisafulli said.
"We have put forward a plan today for faster justice and to restore faith for Queenslanders that it doesn't have to be the way that it is at the moment."
The Miles government passed laws earlier this year to create a forensic science institute.
Whistleblower Dr Kirsty Wright, who exposed issues with Project 13, will lead DNA testing lab reforms if the opposition is elected on October 26.
Polling indicates Mr Crisafulli and the LNP are on track to end the Labor government's nine years in office.
Source: Fijian Broadcasting Cooperation
