The Finocchiaro CLP Government is investing in youth justice from the frontline up, investing in a new generation of trained Youth Justice Officers.
Twenty-two new recruits began their training this week at Holtze Youth Detention Centre to become Youth Justice Officers, strengthening the frontline workforce.
The eight-week training program will equip recruits with the operational, behavioural and legislative skills needed to work in youth detention.
As part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government's year of growth, certainty and security, twenty-two new recruits commenced training on Monday 9 March at Holtze Youth Detention Centre to become Youth Justice Officers, strengthening the frontline workforce.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said there was a strong interest in the roles reflecting a growing commitment from Territorians who want to play a part in keeping the community safe while supporting better outcomes for young people in the justice system.
"Youth Justice Officers play a critical role in maintaining safety and order within our youth detention centres while helping young people engage with programs and supports," Mr Maley said.
"These recruits are stepping into an important role, and this training ensures they are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to work in our corrections system."
The eight-week training program is designed to prepare the recruits for the operational, behavioural and legislative demands of youth detention.
Training combines classroom learning, scenario-based components and practical assessments to ensure recruits are well equipped to supervise young people and respond to complex situations.
The recruitment course, which is the first for 2026, will cover areas including:
Legislative and policy foundations: detention operations, duty of care, and statutory responsibilities.
Operational safety and incident responses: focusing on communication, de-escalation, and safe physical interventions.
Trauma-informed and youth-focused practice: supporting recruits to understand complex behaviours and engage effectively with young people.
Cultural competency: skills, knowledge and awareness vital for working with Aboriginal youth, families, and communities.
Practical custodial skills: daily routines, case documentation, and professional standards.
The recruits are expected to graduate on 1 May 2026 before moving into operational roles and will work to attain a Certificate IV in Youth Justice.
Additional recruitment intakes have been scheduled throughout the year to deliver a consistent pipeline of trained officers and ease pressure on frontline staff.
Training will also begin on 13 April for 10 new Youth Justice Officer recruits in Alice Springs, following strong interest in the positions.
More than 90 applications were submitted for the 10 roles at the Youth Intake and Transfer Facility, with the Alice Springs recruits expected to graduate on 5 June 2026.
