Youth Justice role and functions
Youth Justice is a division of the Department of Corrections. It manages a dynamic framework comprising of:
- laws
- policies
- practices.
The framework is designed to address young people who have committed or are suspected of committing an offence.
It aims to balance holding young offenders accountable with providing support and rehabilitation to reduce reoffending.
Laws and legislation
Each state and territory in Australia has its own youth justice legislation, outlining the specific laws and procedures for dealing with young offenders.
Agencies and institutions
This includes courts, police, youth detention centres and community-based programs.
Principles and objectives
- Holding young people accountable for their actions.
- Providing them with opportunities for rehabilitation and positive development.
- Ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
Early intervention
Strategies focus on identifying and supporting at-risk youth before they come into contact with the justice system, aiming to prevent offending.
Community-based programs
Programs offer various forms of support, including counselling, education and vocational training, to help young people address the underlying causes of their offending behaviour and develop positive life skills.
Rehabilitation and reintegration
Youth Justice aims to give young people the skills and support they need to make positive changes in their lives and successfully reintegrate into the community after any period of detention.
Victim support
Youth Justice supports young people to acknowledge and address the needs of victims of crime.