DNA Testing

Forensic Science Queensland had problems with DNA testing, and two reports found many issues.

In short:

A lab overseas helped process over 600 sexual assault kits after problems were found at Forensic Science Queensland.

The Brisbane lab may start testing rape kits again in July, says director Mick Fuller.

What's next?

About 20,000 old DNA samples still need to be retested.

Queensland's forensics lab may soon resume testing rape kits after sending them to a US lab.

Forensic Science Queensland's $50 million plan to outsource to a US lab has cleared over 600 sexual assault kits.

The lab had problems with testing and culture, which may have led to wrong judgments.

Investigations found the lab was at a critical point of failure.

The US lab has been giving results within 60 days, but local testing will be faster.

Director Mick Fuller wants to restart sexual assault testing in July for quicker results.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington says this means perpetrators will face justice sooner.

Deb Frecklington says 601 outstanding sexual assault kits have been cleared.

This means victims of sexual violence can get answers sooner.

Police can get evidence to courts sooner, and offenders will be brought to court quicker.

The backlog of DNA samples from major crimes has fallen by about 70 percent.

Hundreds of DNA samples were sent overseas to fix problems at Forensic Science Queensland.

The historic backlog will take some time to clear.

Problems with testing and contamination meant tens of thousands of DNA samples need retesting.

Former NSW police commissioner Mick Fuller was appointed to fix Forensic Science Queensland.

Director Mick Fuller says progress has been made, but a lot of work is still needed.

The number of samples to retest has gone from 40,000 to 20,000.

Retesting is not simple and requires careful examination of all aspects.

A report found DNA evidence cases were delayed by up to three years.

Mick Fuller was appointed to fix the lab after the former director resigned.

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