Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Burleigh Heads late night support service gets $250k boost

The Queensland Government has confirmed an additional $250,000 in funding to extend the Late Night Support Service (LNSS) pilot in Burleigh Heads.

The community-led safety initiative is part of a $1 million election commitment to restore public safety in Burleigh and tackle alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour.

The LNSS pilot program has been running since November last year, delivering targeted support, supervision and first aid on weekend evenings to reduce the risk of harm among late-night crowds in Burleigh Heads.  

The Government has announced an additional $249,122 to extend the service, while an evaluation of the trial is underway. The extension allows the pilot to run until 4 April 2027, taking in peak seasonal trading periods and major annual events such as Schoolies. 

Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, Deb Frecklington said the LNSS pilot responds directly to these community concerns about public safety in Burleigh.

“This service provides additional support and resources to Burleigh Heads after dark on weekends, when the late-night precinct is at its busiest, so everyone can enjoy a safe night out,” the Attorney-General said. 

“We promised we would take measures to combat alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in the area, and through this pilot program, we’re enhancing safety for local residents, tourists and young people enjoying Burleigh.”  

“While the Crisafulli Government continues to evaluate the impacts of the trial, we’ve received encouraging feedback from people who have used the service to rest and recover in a safe place.”  

Between 14 November 2025 and 14 March 2026, over 7,600 people have engaged with the service.  

In that period, the LNSS: 

  • treated 166 people for first aid, intoxication or urgent welfare support
  • received 15 direct referrals from local police officers
  • provided safe release to family (12), friends (49) or self-recovery (60)
  • ensured only five people required Queensland Ambulance Service support 

Prior to the commencement of the LNSS pilot, the Government tasked key representatives in the southern Gold Coast to review night life safety in the area. This included local licensed venues and liquor accord members, the City of Gold Coast Council, and Queensland Police Service, who identified a need for enhanced safety, transport, and community support services. 

The pilot operates on Friday and Saturday nights between 10pm and 2am from Justins Park. 

It continues to be delivered by the Gold Coast Youth Service, who provide similar services in both Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach Safe Night Precincts. 

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