Queensland Law Society (QLS) acknowledges that youth justice has a broad impact on our community. We recognise the wide-ranging effects on victims and their families, and the community expectation for steps to be taken to address youth crime.
QLS strongly advocates for a thorough evaluation of the proposed amendments to the Adult Crime, Adult Time legislation to ensure a whole of system approach to address this complex issue.
We acknowledge the Premier has said early intervention and rehabilitation will be considered for youth offenders.
We applaud this approach and encourage the government to invest in diversionary programs that have been proven to reduce recidivism.
With the new legislative measures being introduced to Parliament this week, the Society looks forward to participating in the legislative review process.