CLP strengthens Youth Justice reform as laws pass parliament

31 July 2025

The Finocchiaro CLP Government has delivered on its promise to restore community safety, overhaul a broken youth justice system, and scrap Labor's catch and release scheme - with stronger new laws passed today in parliament.

The passage of this legislation is a key part of our Government’s commitment to 2025 as a year of action, certainty and security for all Territorians.

The changes to the Youth Justice Act 2005 and Youth Justice Regulations 2006 introduce stronger powers for Youth Justice Officers (YJOs), remove Labor’s failed ‘detention as a last resort’ policy, and ensure the rights of victims are prioritised in the justice process.

Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said the passage of the legislation marks a major step forward in restoring accountability, protecting Youth Justice Officers (YJOs), and making sure youth offenders face real consequences.

“For too long, youth offenders have been given chance after chance, while victims were ignored and YJOs were left without the tools they need,” said Minister Maley.

“These laws will give courts greater discretion to respond to repeat and serious offending, and ensure our youth justice system puts victims and community safety first.”

The new laws:

• Allow courts to consider a youth’s full criminal history when sentencing for adult offences;
• Remove the requirement for courts to consider detention as a last resort;
• Permit Youth Justice Officers to use anti-spit guards and reasonable force where needed;
• Broaden the definition of escape and strengthen emergency powers;
• Align CEO powers with the Correctional Services Act;
• Improve victim engagement and information sharing with police and support services;
• Reform the Youth Justice Advisory Committee.

Amendments to the Youth Justice Regulations 2006 expand the list of serious offences that are ineligible for youth diversion.

This means police are no longer required to return serious youth offenders home after committing a serious crime — they can now proceed directly to charging. It's a crucial step in breaking the cycle of reoffending and restoring community safety.

Thirteen additional serious offences have been added to the list, removing the automatic protections under Labor’s failed catch and release scheme.

“These are sensible, practical reforms that respond directly to community concerns and support our YJOs to do their job safely and effectively,” Minister Maley said.

“This Government is delivering what Labor never would: real consequences for serious crimes, and a justice system that puts victims first.”

 Media contact: Kyrrie Blenkinsop - 0461 385 914