Catholic Social Services Australia has written to Australia’s attorneys-general, urging immediate action on the recommendations of a recent inquiry’s final report into Australia’s youth justice and incarceration system.
The letter, signed by CSSA chief executive Jerry Nockles, expresses strong support for the Legal and Constitutional Affairs References Committee inquiry’s call to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 years across all jurisdictions and to implement enforceable national minimum standards to protect vulnerable children and young people.
“Justice is not simply about punishment; it is about peace and restoring human dignity,” Dr Nockles said. “As Pope Leo XIV reminds us, ‘We must rise from every fall; no human being is ever truly justified by what they have done, and justice is always a process of reparation and reconciliation.’
“Our youth justice system must embody this restorative spirit, recognising that every child is more than the sum of their mistakes and deserves the opportunity to heal and thrive.”
Dr Nockles highlighted the vital role Catholic social service providers play nationwide.
“Our network is active in every state, territory and electorate, supporting families and young people in need, including youth engaging with the justice system. We bring a wealth of experience and compassion to this issue, and we want to work collaboratively to help build a system that truly supports children to thrive.”
Carmel Sefian, CSSA’s director of policy and advocacy, said: “Children caught up in the justice system are often those who have suffered the greatest disadvantage and trauma, including the overrepresentation of our First Nations children and children with disability.
“We must respond with compassion, not condemnation. Inspired by the Holy Father’s call for justice as a process of healing, CSSA is committed to advocating for early intervention, culturally safe services, and community-led support that can break cycles of harm and open pathways to hope.”
Ms Sefian said punitive “tough on crime” approaches do not work in the best interests of children.
“We need a justice system that reflects the efficacy of evidence-based community education and diversionary approaches that restore relationships and dignity, not one that perpetuates trauma,” she said.
The letter urges the federal Government to demonstrate national leadership through the Standing Council of Attorneys General under National Cabinet to prioritise coordinated reform efforts, particularly the raising of the age of criminal responsibility, consistent with international human rights standards.
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