Victoria’s ‘adult time for violent crime’ reforms will not solve the youth crime problem

Victoria’s ‘Adult Time for Violent Crime’ Reforms and Youth Crime

The Victorian government has introduced a new youth justice reform package aimed at imposing more severe penalties for certain violent offences committed by children aged 14 and over. This package centers on an "adult time for violent crime" policy.

Key Offences Covered by the Reforms

Aggravated home invasion
Intentionally or recklessly causing injury amid gross violence
Carjacking
Serious and repeat aggravated burglary
Armed robbery

Children charged with these offences could be tried in adult courts, losing the protections provided by the children’s court system. Sentences will be significantly longer, including life imprisonment for aggravated home invasion and aggravated carjacking.

Government Statement

“That means courts will treat these children like adults, so jail is more likely, and sentences are longer,” said Premier Jacinta Allan when announcing the reforms.

Criticism of the Reforms

The reforms have sparked criticism due to the following reasons:

Violation of human rights obligations
Contradiction to evidence-based research on youth crime
High cost implications
Potential long-term devastating effects on children and young people involved with the law

These reforms come as a response to growing community and media pressure on the Allan government for tougher measures on youth crime. However, experts warn they may not solve the underlying problems and might instead cause more harm.

Context within Australia

The Victorian reforms are part of a wider trend of punitive youth justice measures being introduced across Australia, raising concerns about the impact on young offenders nationally.

Author’s Summary

The Victorian government’s harsher youth justice reforms prioritize punishment over rehabilitation, risking severe consequences for young offenders without solving youth crime.

The Conversation — 2025-11-12