There has been bipartisan agreement in Queensland on John Howard’s National Firearms Agreement for 20 years.

As Minister, I take advice from the Queensland Police Service.

All states and territories – Labor and Liberal – have agreed to reclassify lever-action shotguns with magazines of more than five rounds.

Queenslanders deserve the same safety afforded to all Australians and the Palaszczuk Government is committed to that.

Only the LNP can explain why - under its third leader and third deputy leader within two years – it wants to trash John Howard’s National Firearms Agreement, provide less protection for Queenslanders, ignore the expert advice of police and dismiss the consultative approach of the government’s weapons forum.

Unlike the LNP, the Palaszczuk Government puts the safety of Queenslanders ahead of politics.

When it comes to the safety of Queenslanders, I take my advice from the police, not the LNP. 

Mark Ryan MP

Minister for Police

When I think back to the start of a new school year, I can still remember the buzzing feelings of excitement,

anticipation and nerves.

Am I going to have classes with all my friends?

Will I get better results than last year?

Which teachers will I have?

Millions of young people across the country heading into primary and secondary school over the coming weeks may be facing similar feelings – whether they are starting another school year or commencing a new school for the first time.

Some students can adjust to the changes and settle into things quickly.

However, some young people may find this a daunting and challenging time.

There can be a number of reasons why it might be hard to go school: trying to make new friends, pressure to get the best marks, dealing with bullying, or perhaps going through a mental health issue such as anxiety or depression.

These worries can make the next few weeks an uncertain time.

Whether you are a young person struggling, or a parent with concerns about your child, Headspace is here to help.

As the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, Headspace provides support for young people aged 12-25 years old who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing.

No matter where you are, you can access help at Headspace – either through one of our 95 centres in metro, rural and regional areas of Australia, or via eheadspace.org.au where you can receive online and telephone support between 9am-1am (AEDT), seven days-a-week.

There are also general mental health and wellbeing resources available on our website: headspace.org.au.

We wish you and your families a safe and healthy school year ahead.

Dr Natalie Gray

Chief Medical Officer

Headspace

There were congratulations for Rhys Shelly who was selected for the Queensland men's softball team.

Karen DeCourcey Congratulations Rhys. I know your mum and dad and brothers would be so proud and pleased with your achievements