Queensland Clears Rape Kit DNA Backlog and Accelerates Major Crime Testing

The Queensland Government says it has cleared the backlog of untested sexual assault examination kits inherited from the former Labor Government, while also significantly reducing delays in major crime DNA testing.

The milestone marks another step in the State's effort to rebuild confidence in Queensland's forensic system, following widespread concerns over thousands of unprocessed DNA samples.

According to the Government, all previously backlogged rape kits have now been processed after a recovery strategy was introduced to address mounting delays in forensic testing. When the Crisafulli Government took office, 601 sexual assault examination kits and more than 11,000 major crime DNA samples were awaiting analysis.

The Government implemented a two-year outsourcing and recovery plan aimed at restoring timely forensic services and improving access to justice for victims.

As part of that effort, the backlog of major crime DNA samples involving offences against people has reportedly been reduced by 70 per cent - falling from 11,703 samples in November 2024 to 3,488 by May 2026.

The Government has also strengthened leadership within Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) through the appointment of two Deputy Directors.

Saranjeet Khera has joined FSQ with more than 25 years of experience in forensic biology, including senior roles with the UK Metropolitan Police. Kirsten Eades brings extensive public sector and corporate services experience after nearly three decades with the Department of Justice.

Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the reforms were focused on delivering faster outcomes for victims and supporting police investigations.

"These figures are not just statistics - they represent real people impacted by serious crime," Ms Frecklington said.

"We are committed to ensuring DNA evidence is processed as quickly as possible so victims receive answers sooner and police have the forensic support they need."

Director of Forensic Science Queensland Mick Fuller said the results reflected a sustained effort to improve capability, accountability and public trust in the forensic system.

"Timely and reliable forensic results are critical to helping police solve crimes and ensuring victims have greater access to justice," Mr Fuller said.

The Queensland Government says work will continue to further strengthen FSQ's operations, leadership and long-term forensic capacity.