Spit hoods continue to be used on minors while ‘alternatives’ are explored, Queensland government says

Protestors wearing spit hoods during the inquest into Wayne Fella Morrison’s death in custody, which resulted in a ban on their use in South Australia. Photograph: Royce Kurmelovs/The Guardian

The Queensland government has confirmed it continues to use spit hoods on minors, with at least one child subjected to the controversial device in the past year.

Queensland police have told a budget estimates hearing that they have been exploring alternative measures, but the government would not confirm whether they will ban spit hoods or continue to use the restraints.