A teenage boy has admitted to the fatal attack of a grandmother that lead to some of the country’s most significant changes to youth crime laws.

The then 16-year-old boy fatally stabbed Vyleen Joan White, 70, in a suspected carjacking outside a Redbank Plains Town Square shopping centre — west of Brisbane — in February 2024.

WACTH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Teen admits to murder of grandmother Vyleen Joan White

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White’s murder was a catalyst for youth justice reforms, with Queensland’s Liberal National government introducing controversial “adult time, adult crime” laws after winning the 2024 election.

Tough youth justice laws ushered in by the LNP ensure juveniles face adult sentences for more than 30 offences.

However, they won’t apply to this teenager’s case because the changes came into effect in December and don’t apply retrospectively.

Police alleged White was killed during the theft of her 2009 model Hyundai Getz hatchback.

The Bellbird Park teen, who is turning 18 later this year, was charged with murder and unlawful use of a motor vehicle plus three counts of stealing.

The juvenile, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to all the charges in Brisbane Supreme Court on Tuesday.

Vyleene’s widower Victor White and their daughter, Julie White, attended court today, grateful to have avoided the prospect of a long and painful trial.

“They’re the person attacking your wife, stabbing her directly in the heart,” Victor White said.

“Dying right there directly on the floor in front of her granddaughter.”

White’s family members in court did not audibly react to the guilty pleas by the youth, who appeared on Tuesday wearing a green jumper and black pants.

“Every aspect of our lives has changed, every aspect, and it’s something you can’t possibly imagine,” Julie White said.

Prosecutor Chris Cook sought a pre-sentence report by November 3 and a November 12 sentencing.

Defence barrister Matthew Hynes agreed to the dates.

Justice Lincoln Crowley remanded the teen in custody.

“We can’t bring Vyleen back but at least we can achieve proper justice in the future for everyone else involved,” Victor White said.

The teenager could face up to ten years behind bars, although this could be increased if the offence is deemed to be particularly heinous.