Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk personally introduced the bill that will remove the statute of limitations for those who suffered abuse while in institutions. Other measures, which include expanding that offer to those who suffered abuse outside institutions - such as families - will be decided after consultation.

But the Opposition, which had indicated it would pass similar laws if it won government at the next election, doesn't believe Labor's laws go far enough.

In a rare show of genuine emotion, Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls fought back tears as he detailed why.

"The existing legislation—that is, the legislation to be amended by the bill introduced by the Premier—needs amending because it ignores the fact that in many cases psychological damage is neither diagnosed, apparent nor even brought to the attention of the appropriate medical professionals within these time frames," he said.

"There is now clear evidence that many survivors of abuse find it too difficult to deal with the trauma involved in seeking justice for their abuse until well into adulthood.

"In many instances, particularly for men, it is not until they have established a family and have children of their own that they can take such action. In such circumstances, it is unfair to deny them the opportunity of legal redress."

The government has not ruled out broadening the legislation, but says it first wants to see what the legislation will mean for Queensland.  Independent MP Rob Pyne isn't waiting - he plans to immediately introduce legislation that will broaden the scope of what the government wants to do.

Parliament will continue until Thursday.

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