A youth advocacy group warns that without adequate funding for early intervention programs, more children in Victoria may fall into a life of crime. The state is currently experiencing a significant surge in crime, with police data revealing that over 5,400 individuals were arrested ten times or more in the year leading up to June 2023. Alarmingly, among these repeat offenders were 1,100 children aged between 10 and 17, who were apprehended more than 7,000 times.
The rise in youth crime has coincided with a disturbing trend of extreme violence among some minors, particularly those with no prior criminal history, according to police. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns has been profound, pushing many young people towards gangs as they grapple with feelings of isolation and a lack of options. Chris Lacey, general manager of the Les Twentyman Foundation, highlighted that many of these children are facing significant family challenges, including violence, mental health issues, and substance abuse.
“They cling to solutions that appear before them,” Lacey noted, emphasizing that without positive influences, young individuals often make poor choices. The foundation’s data indicates that these repeat offenders are caught in a cycle of negative experiences, and the absence of adequate resources for intervention programs exacerbates the situation. Lacey has called on the state government to restore funding for support initiatives, which he describes as crucial preventative measures.
“These are the programs that are there as the fence at the top of the cliff,” he stated. Lacey explained that when such programs are removed, vulnerable children are left without guidance, increasing the likelihood that they will engage in criminal behavior by the age of 16 or 17.
The statistics surrounding bail decisions further illustrate the pressing issue, showing an 18.4 percent increase in applications at magistrates’ courts over the past year. This spike is attributed to tougher bail laws that have redefined the criteria for remand, particularly for minors. The implementation of ankle bracelets for high-risk youth offenders has also been part of the response to this growing crisis.
Lacey pointed out that incarceration tends to have the opposite effect of rehabilitation. Young individuals often leave prison with enhanced criminal knowledge and networks, making them more likely to commit serious crimes upon release. He mentioned that the Foundation previously met with Premier Jacinta Allan to propose an early intervention program that would allow police to refer first-time offenders to their services for additional support. Unfortunately, they have yet to receive a response.
“We need significant investment to get boots on the ground and youth workers out there doing their outreach work,” Lacey urged. He emphasized that policing alone cannot resolve the crisis; a collaborative effort is essential to redirect these young lives towards more positive outcomes.
The situation is further complicated by a notable increase in property crimes, with four of the five fastest-growing offenses in Victoria related to theft. Motor vehicle theft has surged by 42.1 percent, while retail theft has increased by 27.6 percent.
For those seeking help, support services are available, including Lifeline at 13 11 14 and the Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800, catering to individuals aged 5 to 25. As the statistics reveal an alarming trend, the call for enhanced funding and support for youth intervention programs becomes even more critical to prevent a future generation from slipping through the cracks into a cycle of crime.
