Overview

Funded by ANU Hansen Scandinavian Friendship Research Grant 2023

Australia’s youth justice systems are described as being “in crisis” by the United Nations. Indigenous children are 5.8% of Australia’s population aged 10-17, yet they make up 49% of all youth in detention. This exploratory study will add significantly to the Australian evidence base in an area which has been underexplored yet appears to be identified as a significant issue of concern. At present the National Children’s Commissioner in Australia has undertaken a national study on youth justice and child protection, this proposed study will be of interest nationally at a key time. It will provide contemporary insights from Norway on alternative pathways, on diversion of children away from the youth justice system, on what support mechanisms can be beneficial to support children to desist from involvement in crime and violence, and also provide insights for legislators and policymakers on the practical and legal mechanisms which have worked in Norway, when it raised the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 15-years-old in 1990.

Fields of research

Youth Justice; Children's Rights; International Law

Project lead

Associate Professor Faith Gordon

Partner academic and university

Associate Professor Ingun Fornes, University of Bergen  

Project start

2023

Project status

Active