Raise the minimum age

No child under 14 belongs in prison. Raising the minimum age gives children the opportunity to learn, grow and get the support they need before entering the justice system.

End abusive practices

No child should experience abusive practices like solitary confinement, police cages, restraints and spit hoods, strip searches, and detention in adult watch houses. These practices cause lasting harm and violate children’s human rights. They have no place in Australia’s youth justice system.

Protect every child’s rights

Where a child lives, who they are, or their cultural identity, should never determine whether or not their rights are protected. Government’s must ensure every child is treated with dignity and respect for their human rights through enforceable minimum standards across Australia.

Invest in community-led solutions

The best way to keep children and communities safe is to invest in what works. Community-led solutions help children stay connected to their families, culture and community while addressing the challenges that can lead to contact with the justice system.

Why US?

We work alongside First Nations communities to campaign for lasting change. Together with communities, partners and supporters across the country, we’re building a movement to transform Australia’s youth justice system.

Our independence means we can hold governments to account, expose human rights abuses and keep pushing until children receive the support, dignity and justice they deserve.

For more than 60 years, Amnesty has helped change laws, shift public attitudes and hold those in power accountable. We bring that experience, and the strength of our movement, to the fight for a youth justice system that puts kids first.