Jesuit Social Services Challenges Opposition's Proposal
Jesuit Social Services has criticised the Victorian Opposition’s proposal to expand laws aimed at increasing juvenile detention. The organisation claims this approach will not effectively reduce youth crime.
This plan intends to extend the ‘adult time for violent crime’ laws, doubling the number of offences that lead to detention. Jesuit Social Services argues this is a step backwards, as detention has failed as a deterrent and often increases the likelihood of reoffending.
Julie Edwards, CEO of Jesuit Social Services, emphasised, “Endlessly locking up children is a shortsighted, cruel, and unsustainable way to go about community safety.”
Evidence Against Detention
Jesuit Social Services highlights that over 60 per cent of children in detention have experienced abuse, neglect, or trauma. Approximately half have interacted with the child protection system, and many have faced family violence. This paints a concerning picture of the backgrounds of those affected.
In a statement, Ms. Edwards explained, “We know from our nearly 50 years of experience working with young people that jail is proven not to work as a deterrent to reoffending. It does nothing to avoid the initial crime and only makes children more likely to commit further crimes in the future.”
The organisation advocates for increased investment in restorative practices and early intervention. This approach aims to keep young people engaged in education, family, and community instead of relying on an ineffective and costly detention system.
Jesuit Social Services has submitted evidence-based recommendations to the State Government in their 2026-27 Victorian Pre-Budget Submission. These recommendations focus on prevention and restorative justice over punitive measures.
Last year’s State Budget allocated $727 million for prison expansion. However, Jesuit Social Services questions the lack of comparable investment in prevention, early intervention, and restorative justice programs.
During an election year, there is concern that new laws could allow children as young as 14 to be sentenced to life in prison. This scenario is seen as a dangerous race to the bottom in law and order policies.
Ms. Edwards concludes, “Community safety and the fundamental rights of children should not be collateral damage in political point scoring. We all deserve better from our representatives in parliament.”
The organisation urges the opposition to reconsider this harmful policy and instead focus on addressing the causes and conditions that generate crime. They believe investing in restorative practice and early intervention will keep young people engaged with education, family, and positive role models in the community.
Last updated: 15 April 2026, 5:04 pm
