The Queensland Government has announced the appointment of two new Deputy Directors of Public Prosecutions to strengthen criminal prosecution services across the state.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the appointments of David Nardone and Christopher Cook will increase the capacity of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and support the delivery of justice across both metropolitan and regional Queensland.
“These appointments are another important step in delivering faster access to justice for victims and ensuring Queensland’s prosecution services have the leadership and resources they need,” the Attorney-General said.
“By placing senior prosecutorial expertise in both Cairns and Ipswich, we’re strengthening the capacity of the ODPP, supporting regional communities across the State, and helping restore capacity after years of Labor failures to properly invest in court services and justice infrastructure.
“Mr Nardone and Mr Cook are highly respected legal practitioners who will make a valuable contribution to Queensland’s justice system.”
Mr Nardone has more than 30 years’ experience with the ODPP, including as Principal Crown Prosecutor and Consultant Crown Prosecutor. He has extensive experience prosecuting complex criminal matters and has also contributed to significant law reform and victim-focused justice initiatives in Queensland.
Mr Cook has nearly 20 years’ experience with the ODPP, progressing from legal support roles to become a highly experienced Crown Prosecutor and now Consultant Crown Prosecutor. He has prosecuted serious criminal matters across Queensland and brings extensive expertise in criminal law.
The two positions were part of a $10.6 million investment in the Government’s 2026-27 State Budget, which also funds 25 additional Crown Prosecutors and solicitors across Queensland and the expansion of a digital case management system at the ODPP.
Mr Nardone and Mr Cook have each been appointed for five-year terms. Mr Nardone will be based in Cairns, while Mr Cook will be based in Ipswich.
