Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic), has strongly criticised the State Government’s proposal to allow children to be sentenced in the adult justice system. The reforms, which could include life sentences for children and young people, run contrary to the decades of evidence showing that harsh punishments do not reduce offending.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and that they belong in their community. The best way to keep the Victorian community safe is to focus on stopping crimes being committed in the first place. That means giving children and young people the support to thrive and feel like a valued member of our community, not telling them we have given up on them by sending them to prison for life,” said YACVic CEO Mary Nega.

“Every child has the right to learn from their mistakes safely and with support. As a society we are better than turning our backs on young people calling out for help.”

“All the evidence shows that treating children and young people like adults doesn’t work – it makes reoffending more likely. When young people are supported through the Children’s Court and community-based programs, they are far more likely to turn their lives around.”

“We can hold children and young people accountable without destroying their futures. Real accountability means helping them understand the impact of their actions and supporting them – not locking them up and giving up on them. That means tackling the known drivers of crime by investing in housing, education, mental health and community supports – not sending children into adult courts and prisons.”

YACVic is calling on the Victorian Government to abandon the proposed reforms and instead invest in proven approaches that prevent crime before it happens – including housing, education, mental health and community-led youth programs. Young people should have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes safely, with care and guidance, rather than being condemned to a life in-and-out of prison.

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Media contact: Casey Dean (she/her), YACVic Media & Communications Coordinator on 0498 730 553 or CDean@YACVic.org.au

About Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic)

Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is the peak body and leading policy advocate for young people aged 12-25 and the youth sector in Victoria. Established in 1960, YACVic advocates for the rights of young people in Victoria to ensure they are active, visible and valued in their communities.