Calls for Investment in Community Support
Jesuit Social Services has strongly opposed the proposed graduated mandatory minimum sentences for young offenders in Victoria. They argue that such measures fail to deter because young people often lack the ability to fully assess risks. According to Julie Edwards, CEO of Jesuit Social Services, “The evidence suggests that mandatory sentences tend not to deter young people from reoffending. A 14-year-old cannot assess risks or consequences like a fully developed adult.”
The organisation highlights systemic issues contributing to youth offending. Over 60% of detained children have experienced abuse, trauma, or neglect, with more than half having interacted with child protection services. These figures underscore the need for addressing root causes rather than imposing punitive measures.
Vulnerabilities and Organised Crime
Many detained youths face additional challenges. One quarter have cognitive disabilities, and one fifth live in unstable housing conditions. Organised crime groups exploit these vulnerabilities, significantly influencing youth offending. “Victoria clearly has a severe problem with organised crime,” noted Ms. Edwards. “These groups are sophisticated and well-resourced, yet the focus often remains on young people, who are also victims.”
Jesuit Social Services advocates for investment in schools, housing, mental health services, and community-based programmes grounded in evidence. These are seen as more effective solutions than mandatory sentencing. Ms. Edwards emphasised, “If Victorians want safer communities, we need leaders willing to invest in what actually delivers them: schools, housing, mental health, family support, and community-based programmes.”
Claims from the Victorian Police Commissioner, Mike Bush, support graduated mandatory minimum sentences as a deterrent for youth offending. However, Jesuit Social Services argues this overlooks organised crime’s influence and fails to address youth crime’s root causes. “Rather than giving up on these children, we owe many of them a first chance,” Ms. Edwards concluded. “Our focus should be on providing opportunities and support to help them build a better future.”
Under a “graduated mandatory minimum” structure, sentences increase with reoffending. However, Jesuit Social Services stresses the importance of age-appropriate accountability. “This is not an argument against accountability,” Ms. Edwards said. “It’s an argument for accountability that is age-appropriate, evidence-informed, and capable of changing behaviour.”
Investing in community support has been shown to reduce reoffending rates more effectively than punitive measures. Jesuit Social Services urges Victorian leaders to prioritise proactive investment. “We should focus on creating safer communities through investment in educational and social services,” Ms. Edwards urged. “This approach better addresses the complexities of youth offending.”
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Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:11 pm
