The disbandment of the Youth Justice Reform Select Committee following a late-night sitting has left many stakeholders disheartened, including the mother of a 15-year-old boy who was tragically killed, emphasizing the need for serious action on addressing youth crime. The committee, led by independent MP Sandy Bolton and comprised of members from various political parties, had been established in October last year to address the pressing issues surrounding youth justice in Queensland. Despite conducting numerous meetings, hearings, and receiving a substantial number of submissions, the committee faced challenges in reaching agreement, ultimately resulting in its dissolution at a critical juncture.
The interim report released after the committee's dissolution outlined 60 draft recommendations aimed at reforming the youth justice sector, prioritizing community safety, and focusing on early intervention and prevention strategies. The report highlighted the consensus that Queensland's current youth justice system falls short of meeting community expectations in terms of both safety and rehabilitation. The need for a comprehensive long-term youth justice strategy, consequences for actions, and prioritizing victims' rights were emphasized as key areas requiring immediate attention and reform. Additionally, suggestions were made to appoint additional magistrates to the Childrens Court, improve reporting mechanisms on youth detention, and set clear boundaries on certain practices within detention centers.
Despite the need for urgent action to address youth crime and enhance rehabilitation efforts, the committee faced challenges related to divisions on certain issues, such as the regulation of traditional and social media in relation to youth crime. Stakeholders such as the Youth Advocacy Centre and Voice for Victims expressed disappointment over the committee's disbandment and the perceived lack of focus on victims' voices and the urgency of the situation. Calls were made for politicians to set aside differences, focus on producing long-term solutions, and prioritize the safety and well-being of Queensland communities, particularly in the context of a rising number of young people in custody.