- New state-of-the-art robotic DNA processing technology now operational at Forensic Science Queensland to help clear remainder of Labor's DNA backlog.
- Major crime DNA backlog inherited from Labor reduced by more than 80 per cent, with backlog of untested rape kits fully cleared.
- Advanced technology strengthens Queensland's forensic capability and modernises laboratory workflow for faster access to justice for victims.
- More than $37 million invested in FSQ through this year's Budget to continue fixing Labor's DNA debacle and restore confidence in forensic services.
The Crisafulli Government has delivered another major milestone in fixing Labor's DNA debacle, with two new DNA processing robots now operational at Forensic Science Queensland.
The new instruments replace ageing equipment that failed under Labor, contributing to mass-contamination events and major evidentiary backlogs affecting approximately 13,000 cases across Queensland.
The cutting-edge technology doubles the processing capacity of DNA samples, delivering high-quality DNA extraction while significantly reducing manual handling.
The robots will improve efficiency, reliability, and safety in the laboratory, while supporting police investigations to deliver faster outcomes for victims.
When the Crisafulli Government took office, more than 11,700 major crime DNA samples - crimes against people - remained untested, along with 601 rape kits, delaying investigations and denying victims timely access to justice.
The rape kit backlog has been eliminated, and the major crime backlog has now been reduced by more than 80 per cent – falling from 11,703 in November 2024 to 2,240 in July 2026.
The backlog of volume crime samples –crime such as theft – has fallen by almost 40 per cent, from 3,679 in November 2024 to 2,151 in July 2026.
The Crisafulli Government has implemented a two-year outsourcing strategy and recovery plan to restore confidence in the forensic system. Through the 2026-27 Budget, the Crisafulli Government is investing more than $37 million over four years in Forensic Science Queensland to build on the significant progress already made.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said new technology and a reduction in testing delays at Forensic Science Queensland marked another important step in restoring confidence in Queensland's forensic system, after one of the greatest failures of a justice system anywhere in the world under Labor.
"Labor allowed critical forensic equipment to fail, contributing to massive DNA testing backlogs that denied victims justice and delayed police investigations," the Attorney-General said.
"Today, we are seeing the results of a government committed to fixing that mess, with new state-of-the-art DNA robots now in service and the major crime backlog reduced by more than 80 per cent.
"These upgrades mean faster processing, greater capability and more reliable forensic services that support police to solve crimes and help victims get answers sooner.
"We promised to put victims first and restore confidence in Queensland's forensic system, and that's exactly what we are delivering."
Director of Forensic Science Queensland Mick Fuller said the new robotic instruments would play a critical role in modernising forensic operations and supporting continuous long-term improvements.
"These new systems significantly strengthen our forensic capability and provide safer and more efficient DNA testing processes," Mr Fuller said.
"Combined with the significant reduction in major crime testing delays, this demonstrates the progress being made to rebuild Queensland's forensic services and deliver timely forensic results for investigators and victims.
"Reliable DNA testing and faster turnaround times are essential to helping police solve serious crimes, support prosecutions and maintain public confidence in the justice system."
