Youth justice overhaul: Stronger laws to protect staff and put community safety first

28 July 2025

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is taking decisive action to fix a broken youth justice system, with new laws to put victims first, protect frontline staff and hold serious youth offenders to account.

This week, legislation will be introduced on urgency to overhaul the Youth Justice Act 2005 and Youth Justice Regulations 2006, delivering stronger measures to protect frontline staff, strengthen victim rights, and ensure appropriate punishment for youth offenders.

Key changes include:

• Courts can now consider a youth’s full criminal history when sentencing for adult offences.
• Removing 'detention as a last resort': courts no longer need to exhaust all alternatives before remanding a youth.
• Stronger powers for Youth Justice Officers to use anti-spit guards and reasonable force, to maintain safety and prevent escapes.
• Expanded powers for the Commissioner to manage emergencies, aligning with the Correctional Services Act.

The reforms respond to repeated community concerns and real cases where young offenders reoffended while on bail, putting the community at further risk.

Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said the Finocchiaro CLP Government was unapologetic for ending Labor’s disastrous catch and release scheme.

“Territorians have a right to safe streets and communities, victims have a right to a responsible justice system, and serious offenders have the right to remain silent,” said Mr Maley.

“For too long Labor and their apologists championed the rights of offenders above the rights of victims and the community,” Mr Maley said.

"That stops now."

The proposed legislative changes will also:

• Align CEO powers with the Correctional Services Act.
• Strengthen victim engagement and information sharing with police and support services.
• Broaden the definition of escape.
• Introduce clear rules for searches and detainee separation.
• Reform the Youth Justice Advisory Committee.

“We’re delivering on our promise to make 2025 a year of action, certainty and security," said Minister Maley.

Media contact: Kyrrie Blenkinsop - 0461 385 914