Home » Document

Submission to the Senate Inquiry into Australia’s Youth Justice and Incarceration System

Description

This submission to the Senate Inquiry into Australia’s youth justice and incarceration system highlights the overrepresentation of young people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds in the youth justice system. MYAN advocates for a National Youth Justice Standards Framework, focused on early intervention, diversion programs, and culturally appropriate responses. The submission draws attention to systemic issues like racism, socioeconomic inequality, and inadequate support services, proposing reforms to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 and to end solitary confinement practices. Key programs, such as the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program (YRIPP) and the Youth in Power Program (YIPP), are presented as effective models for supporting vulnerable youth and reducing recidivism. MYAN emphasises the need for a coordinated, culturally responsive approach to improve outcomes for young people in the justice system.

Additional Information

Latest Articles