The Victorian Government’s plan to introduce “adult time for violent crime” laws is deeply concerning, will not make the community safer and is incompatible with the fundamental rights of children, Jesuit Social Services says.
Children as young as 14 could be jailed for life for violent crimes under justice reforms set to be introduced by the Allen Government in response to rising crime rates.
The proposed reforms, approved by cabinet on Tuesday, will see children charged with aggravated home invasion intentionally or recklessly causing injury in circumstances of gross violence, carjacking and serious and repeat aggravated burglary and armed robbery tried and sentenced by adult courts.
“Serious and violent crime has a terrible impact on victims and communities. We need genuine reform to reduce harm and keep the community safe instead of short-term, politically-driven responses,” Julie Edwards, Jesuit Social Services chief executive officer, said.
“We need reform and investment to address and reduce crime, to meet the needs of victims through restorative practices, and to ultimately create the stronger and more cohesive communities we all want.”
Ms Edwards said Jesuit Social Services has worked in the youth justice space for nearly 50 years, and “we have long urged our political leaders to commit to do much more to prevent crime from occurring in the first place and keep young people engaged with education, family and positive role models in the community”.
“Instead, we have seen reforms to bail and sentencing and investment at the wrong end of the system with $727 million committed in the 2025 Victorian budget to prison expansion.
“Where is the similar investment in prevention, early intervention, restorative justice programs, and services for children to recover from past experiences of trauma and violence?”
Ms Edwards urged the Victorian Government to “abandon this legislation and commit to policies and investments to better support children to address the underlying drivers of crime”.
FULL STORY
‘Adult time for violent crime’ laws won’t reduce youth crime or improve community safety (Jesuit Social Services)
