Queensland government ‘opens old wounds’ as police officer criticised after Palm Island riots appointed to Legal Aid board

The Queensland government appointed Darren Robinson, a Townsville lawyer and former police detective, to the Legal Aid Queensland board, replacing Labor-appointed members. This appointment has drawn criticism from First Nations community leaders and legal professionals due to Robinson's involvement in events surrounding the 2004 Palm Island riots. Critics argue that Robinson's appointment by Attorney General Deb Frecklington has caused renewed trauma for the Indigenous community. The controversy stems from Robinson's role as a detective during the aftermath of the riots, leading to concerns about potential bias within the Legal Aid system. The Liberal National party government's decision to appoint Robinson is viewed as insensitive and potentially damaging to community relations.