Reference group starts work on Youth Justice strategy

A high-level reference group working on Queensland’s new Youth Justice Strategy and reporting to Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women Di Farmer held its first meeting in Brisbane today.

The Youth Justice Strategy Reference Group, which includes key government and community representatives, is building on former Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson’s report on Youth Justice.

The reference group includes representatives from peak industry and sporting bodies including the National Retailers Association, QSport, education providers, health and mental health service providers, youth and indigenous community organisations.

It also includes universities and Commissioners from the NT Royal Commission into the Protection of Children in the Northern Territory, as well as former Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson.

Ms Farmer said the reference group was another important step to a better Youth Justice Strategy for Queensland.

“It was fantastic today to see so many people, representing a wide range of groups, come together to work towards a stronger Youth Justice system in Queensland,” Ms Farmer said.

“Having such a diverse group makes sure we have a wide range of community views as we develop the strategy.

“Their work is a continuation of the great work Bob Atkinson developed in his Youth Justice report to Government.

“Together they help us build a roadmap for preventing and responding to youth offending in Queensland.”

Ms Farmer said reducing youth offending would lead to safer communities and better futures for young people.

“We are doing a range of things to hold young people accountable, but we also want to change their story so they can pursue better options in life,” she said.

“The reference group will work together to make sure the Youth Justice Strategy is well connected and creates solutions that work for all Queensland communities.

“We want to make sure Queensland’s young people face a bright future and that our communities, including young people, are safe.”

ENDS

Media Contact:                      Ron Goodman                        0427 781 920