Input sought on diversion options for young offenders

The Victorian Coalition Government is examining ways to reduce the impact of crime on the community by diverting young offenders from repeated offending and contact with the justice system.

Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge and Attorney-General Robert Clark, have today released the consultation paper, Practical lessons, fair consequences – Improving diversion for young people in Victoria, seeking the views of affected parties, community sector organisations and the broader community.

“Providing young offenders with an opportunity to learn from their mistakes and address the underlying issues that have led to their criminal behaviour can divert them from progressing to further and more serious crimes and becoming caught up in the criminal justice system,” Ms Wooldridge said.

“Effective diversion seeks to change offending behaviours and attitudes, promote positive behaviour and assist getting lives back on track.”

Mr Clark said that the examination of diversion options for young offenders was a further demonstration of the Coalition Government’s commitment to tackling crime through reforms ranging from more police on the street, to stronger and more effective sentencing.

“If young offenders, particularly first time offenders, can learn the error of their ways through being diverted to programs that lead them to understand the effects of their crimes on others and the consequences of further offending, and provide them with a positive way forward, this will help reduce both crime and costs to the criminal justice system,” Mr Clark said.

The consultation paper released today seeks views on a range of possible changes to diversion options at the front end of the system, when young people first encounter the police or are required to appear in the Children’s Court.

For further information, including how to make a submission visit www.justice.vic.gov.au