COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING OUR YOUTH JUSTICE SYSTEM

ROGER JAENSCH MP, Minister for Education, Children and Youth

The Rockliff Liberal Government is progressing its reforms to the youth justice system through targeted and considered investment in the 2023-24 Tasmanian Budget.

Minister for Education, Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, said this Budget included additional funding to support Tasmania’s transition to a contemporary, integrated, and therapeutic Youth Justice System.

“Our Government remains focussed on improving outcomes for children, young people and their families and keeping our community safe,” Minister Jaensch said.

“Our new approach will focus on early intervention to divert young people away from the youth justice system, as well as reducing reoffending.”

As part of this system reform, the Rockliff Liberal Government is progressing the closure of the Ashley Youth Detention Centre and establishing new facilities.

Minister Jaensch said along with a southern-based detention centre, the Government is investing in new supported bail facilities and supported accommodation facilities to assist with successful transition from detention back into the community.

This Budget includes an additional $10 million in 2026-27 to progress the delivery of new Youth Justice facilities, increasing the total allocation for this capital project to $50 million.

“Consultation on the shortlisted detention facility sites has recently concluded, with work underway to identify sites for the other components of our youth justice facilities model,” Minister Jaensch said.

The 2023-24 Tasmanian Budget is targeting every dollar to get things done and build a strong economy, as well as creating a safe, caring community.