TasCOSS welcomes today’s announcement from the Minister for Education, Children and Youth that the Government will convene a Community Consultative Committee, which will bring together Government and community service organisations to develop an innovative, therapeutic and nation-leading youth justice system.
“Since September, TasCOSS and other civil society organisations have been meeting to collaborate on how we can all work together to promote and protect the rights of all Tasmanian children, particularly those who are involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in, the criminal justice system,” said TasCOSS CEO, Ms Adrienne Picone.
“We know urgent change is needed to address the identified failures of our current youth justice model. We all must take action to make sure our children and families are safe and supported, and to deliver effective, evidence-based therapeutic programs tailored to meet the needs of our communities.
“Our community organisations — who already know and work with Tasmanian families and children — stand ready to work alongside the Government to offer their knowledge and expertise through the convening of the Community Consultative Committee.”