The Commission for Children and Young People of the Australian state of Victoria has published a report in which it seeks to put an end to the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children and young people in the youth justice system. In this regard, the entity states that in order to search for and implement potential solutions, children and young Aboriginals must be at the centre of these efforts, alongside their families, communities, and culture.
This report is the result of an inquiry that has produced 41 findings and 75 recommendations which, according to the Commission, can be implemented within five years. Furthermore, it seeks the implementation of both the better coordination of all services working with children and young people, and a group of measures aimed at minimising police contact, strengthening legal support and diversion measures, reducing the unnecessary use of remand, and shaping a justice system that focuses on prevention and early intervention at every stage.
In addition, The Commission for Children and Young People recommends that the minimum age of criminal responsibility be raised to 14 years old, in line with calls by national advocates for children’s rights and the recommendations of the United Nations.