The Territory Labor Government is continuing its work on youth justice reform in Budget 2023 by investing more than $24 million over three years to implement the new Model of Care for youth detention.
The Model of Care is set to redefine how young people are cared for in youth justice centres, ensuring rehabilitation is at the forefront of our response.
It facilitates a therapeutic, trauma-informed, culturally-appropriate service delivery to improve the wellbeing of young people and reduce their likelihood of reoffending. It also ensures a safe and secure environment for youth, staff and visitors.
The development of the Model of Care involved 18 months of intensive consultation and co-design work with the Youth Justice sector including Government departments, non-government organisations, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, service providers, young people, families and communities right across the Northern Territory.
The investment will ensure the new $55 million Youth Detention Centre currently under construction at Holtz has the appropriate staffing levels and offers rehabilitative programs to reduce rates of reoffending.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Territory Families Kate Worden
"The Territory Labor Government has made significant reform to support children, young people and families through early intervention and prevention.
"Budget 2023 continues to invest in the journey we've been on to transform youth detention services for generations to come.
"I'm so proud of the tireless effort that has gone on behind the scenes to transform the way we support young people that isn't just in their interests but in the interests of community safety.
"We are set to deliver not only new state-of-the-art youth justice facilities but we are also investing in the people and programs that improve wellbeing, reduce the likelihood of reoffending and help young people get their lives back on track."
Northern Territory Government
