Young people: going to a detention centre

In the Northern Territory (NT), a young person aged to 10 to 17 can go to a youth detention centre for 2 reasons.

They can be:

  • remanded in detention for a period of time while waiting for their court appearance
  • sentenced to detention for a period of time by the courts if they are convicted of a criminal offence.

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If a young person turns 18 years old while remanded or sentenced, they may be transferred to an adult corrections facility in Darwin or Alice Springs.

Remanded in detention

Remand is a word used to describe the time a young person has to stay in the detention centre, while they wait for their court case to be finished.

They can be sent to a detention centre on remand by the police or the courts if they are not given bail.

While in detention, a young person may speak to an official visitor if they have any concerns.

Their job is to check on their conditions and treatment.

Sentenced to detention

Once a young person's case has finished, the courts may sentence them to the detention centre for a period of time.

During their time, young people:

  • can access educational and work-ready programs
  • are supported by staff to find out the cause of their offending behaviour
  • may have to take part in programs that address anti-social and criminal behaviour.

When they have completed their sentence, they will be released from the detention centre.

How to submit a complaint

If you're concerned about the treatment of a young person in the detention centre, contact the NT Children’s Commissioner.


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