Petition Amend the Youth Justice Act 2024

Issue:

This petition of residents in Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly that communities across Victoria are concerned about repeat youth offending, violent public disorder and property crime. Petitioners are concerned that the current youth justice framework limits the ability of police and the courts to respond effectively to repeat offending and serious violent behaviour by some young offenders aged 12 and 13 years, reducing accountability, limiting opportunities for early intervention and rehabilitation, and undermining community confidence in the justice system. Petitioners are also concerned by the increasing involvement of young offenders in serious violent crime and the impact this is having on community safety and confidence in the justice system.

Action:

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly amend the Youth Justice Act 2024:
1. Remove mandatory pre-court diversion requirements for young persons charged with serious and violent offences;
2. Strengthen the ability of Victoria Police to charge and bring before the Children's Court young persons alleged to have committed serious public order, property or violent offences;
3. Young offenders who engage in serious violent behaviour shall be mandated to participate in appropriate intervention, education or rehabilitation programs to promote accountability and reduce reoffending;
4. Strengthen recognition of victim safety and wellbeing within the youth justice system; and
5. Review the operation of doli incapax to ensure serious public order, property and violent offences can be appropriately considered by the courts.