Daniel’s Law searches surge as families seek child safety information

From left Minister Dan Purdie, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, Marty Hunt and Deputy Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon.

More than 380,000 visits have been made to Queensland’s first public child sex offender register in its first six months, with families using Daniel’s Law to seek information aimed at helping protect children.

The State Government said the register, launched on December 31, 2025, had recorded 381,591 website visits, 44,472 locality search applications and 202 parent and guardian disclosure applications.

The figures were released in Palmwoods, home of Daniel’s House, six months after the website went live.

Daniel’s Law was introduced following a two-decade campaign by Bruce and Denise Morcombe, whose son Daniel was abducted and murdered in 2003.

The law gives parents and caregivers access to information about convicted child sex offenders for the first time in Queensland’s history.

Police and Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie said the figures showed strong public demand for the reform.

“Queensland families waited long enough for this reform after a decade of Labor delays, and these figures show parents are embracing Daniel’s Law because it gives them information they should have had years ago,” he said.

“As a former Child Protection Detective, I know information is one of the most powerful tools we can give families, and Daniel’s Law is helping parents make informed decisions to protect their children.

“Every search, every application and every disclosure is proof that Daniel Morcombe’s legacy is making a real difference and helping keep Queensland children safe.”

The Government said 14 reportable offenders had been identified through parent and guardian disclosure searches, while three offenders had been charged for allegedly breaching their reporting obligations.

Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt said the milestone was significant for the local community.

“As the local Member for Nicklin, it means a great deal to stand here in Palmwoods, home to Daniel House, six months after Daniel’s Law website went live following these landmark laws,” Mr Hunt said.

“Seeing hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders – and locals - using Daniel’s Law is exactly what Bruce and Denise Morcombe fought for over two decades, a practical way to help families make informed decisions and better protect their children.” Mr Hunt said it was important to give families the information they needed to help keep their children safe.

Bruce and Denise Morcombe said the reform was a meaningful step after more than 20 years of advocacy.

“Daniel’s Law is about giving parents another tool to help keep their children safe and empowering families with knowledge,” they said.

“We hope Daniel’s legacy continues to protect children and support families across Queensland for generations to come.”