To:

Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, 

Governor of Queensland

Official Secretary

Office of the Governor

GPO Box 434

BRISBANE QLD 4001

Her Excellency,

We, the undersigned residents of Queensland, respectfully petition the Queensland Parliament to consider and enact legislation commonly known as “Castle Law” or “Castle Doctrine” to strengthen the rights of law-abiding citizens to defend themselves, their families, and their property against unlawful intrusion.

In recent years, communities across Queensland have faced a concerning increase in home invasions, violent break-ins, and armed robberies. These incidents have left many families feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their legal rights in situations where immediate defensive action may be necessary to protect life and property.

Castle Law legislation would:

Affirm the right of individuals to use reasonable and proportionate force, including deadly force when necessary, to defend themselves and others against unlawful entry or attack within their home, business, or occupied vehicle.
Remove the duty to retreat when faced with an imminent threat in these spaces, recognising the right of Queenslanders to stand their ground when under attack.
Provide legal protection from criminal prosecution and civil liability for individuals acting in genuine self-defence under such circumstances.

Such laws already exist in various forms in other jurisdictions, both within Australia and internationally, with the intent of balancing public safety, deterrence of violent crime, and the fundamental right to self-defence.

We believe the introduction of Castle Law in Queensland would:

Act as a strong deterrent against violent offenders.
Provide clarity for both citizens and law enforcement regarding self-defence rights.
Restore public confidence that the law will protect those who act to defend themselves in life-threatening situations.

We urge the Queensland Government to consult with legal experts, law enforcement agencies, and community representatives to draft and introduce legislation that enshrines these protections, while maintaining safeguards to prevent misuse.

We thank you for your time, consideration, and dedication to ensuring the safety and security of Queenslanders.

Yours sincerely,

Jason Hoad

Gladstone, Queensland, Australia, 4680

10 AUGUST 2025