Page 4554 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 18 October 2011
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the commission acknowledges that the design of Bimberi has led directly to more positive outcomes for children and young people.
The commission also supports the change management process that the government established in Bimberi at the latter part of 2010, before the commission’s inquiry, as being on the right track. Nevertheless, the commission provides us with advice about positive changes that we can make across the youth justice system and at Bimberi to achieve even better outcomes for some of our most vulnerable children and young people.
Mr Assistant Speaker, the government’s response to the commission’s report outlines how we will build on what we have achieved and confidently take the next stage of change in the ACT youth justice system. I will now outline some of the government’s response. I would like to highlight that a number of factors have influenced the government's response to this report.
Firstly, the government acknowledges the contribution of many individuals and organisations in the commission’s review. In particular, the commission spoke to young people at Bimberi and young people with previous experience of the broader youth justice system. This included young people who were incarcerated at the Alexander Maconochie Centre at the time of the review.
Secondly, the government would like to acknowledge the evidence base where it is used by the commission to inform its recommendations. In a number of areas the commission has applied contemporary Australian and international research to support its recommendations. This is particularly relevant in respect of operational practices in youth detention settings that can be applied at Bimberi. The better practice elements identified by the commission will inform of the ongoing development of the ACT youth justice system alongside other national and international evidence.
Thirdly, the commission strongly articulates the components of a quality youth justice system including the need for a commitment for a clear vision, human rights, engagement with the community, evidence-based practice, a culture of performance, and a skilled and supported workforce. The government supports the elements of a quality youth justice system identified by the commission.
Finally, the government acknowledges that there are a number of challenges in addressing any change in the ACT youth justice system. Some of these challenges relate to the tension between meeting the individual needs and best interests of children and young people and ensuring community safety. There is also the need to effectively manage risk, and that is most acute at Bimberi.
The government recognises that a youth justice system that manages risk effectively will create more opportunities for children and young people to engage in restorative programs and activities and build trusting relationships with the people around them. The government is committed to wisely negotiating these challenges and carefully addressing these risks as it continues to implement positive change in the ACT youth justice system.
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