ACT's youth crime policy lacks the funding to make it work
The ACT raised criminal responsibility to 14 but lacks funding for intervention services to handle rising youth crime.
The ACT's plan to keep young offenders out of the justice system hits a hard truth: it cannot afford to support the alternative. The government raised the age of criminal responsibility from 12 to 14 in July.
The government aimed to divert children into intervention programs instead of courts and detention. Experts and police warn the support system is severely under-resourced.
Between July and September, police dealt with 84 offences by children under 14. Assault and property damage topped the list.
Knife crime is escalating. Recent incidents happened at Lanyon High School and Lake Tuggeranong College car park.
Deputy Commissioner Scott Lee flagged concerns even before the law took effect. He pointed to a lack of 24-hour crisis services.
Experts say many young offenders suffer deep trauma and need serious help. But the territory has not funded that help.
- 84 offences by children under 14
- Offences recorded
- Raised from 12 to 14
- Age threshold
- Lack of 24-hour crisis services
- Crisis service gap
- Knife crime escalating at schools
- Crime type
Why it mattersWithout resource backing, the policy cannot protect vulnerable young people or protect the community from escalating crime, leaving both at risk.
AustraliaACT residents face rising youth crime despite government reform; other states are watching whether such a policy can work only if properly funded.
