New police search powers and higher penalties for firearm and arson offences
Crimes Legislation Amendment (Organised and Gang-related Crime Reforms) Bill 2026
1st House
2nd House
Law
Introduced by: Yasmin Catley (ALP)
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
Police can apply for access orders if they suspect someone used an encrypted criminal communication device.
People executing warrants can operate equipment to find and copy data that fits the warrant.
The Supreme Court confirms the threshold for unexplained wealth orders is $250,000 in cash or $2 million in total assets.
Defendants must prove their wealth is not unexplained.
Maximum jail time for recruiting a child for crime rises to 12 years.
Recruiting children under 16 or for serious crimes is now an aggravated offence with a 15 year limit.
Destroying business premises with fire or explosives is now a crime with a 14 year limit.
Firing a firearm at a motor vehicle with reckless disregard for safety is now a crime with a 16 to 18 year limit.