Youth Justice in Australia

Abstract

Abstract This essay provides an overview and analysis of juvenile justice in Australia. It describes the historical background to the establishment of a separate juvenile justice system and the contemporary legislative framework for juvenile justice. The essay examines the most prevalent offenses for which young people come into contact with juvenile justice agencies. the role of the police, the administration of diversionary schemes, and the role of the children’s court are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the sentencing of young people and the various sanctions available to the court, including community-based orders and detention. The longer-term trends in sentencing, particularly the use of detention, are also analyzed. The essay concludes with a consideration of key issues in juvenile justice, including policing and public order, the use of pretrial detention (remand), racialization and the overrepresentation of Indigenous youth, and the importance of human rights