ABSTRACT
It is particularly important for community approaches to be promoted with young people in the criminal justice system, both for reasons of justice and human rights and because positive and supportive approaches can lead such young people away from future criminal justice involvement. This chapter covers wider debates about youth justice, including those connected to international bodies and instruments, as well as the particular circumstances within Australia. It gives some examples of the situation and approaches within each state, including where they set the age of criminal responsibility, and how that departs from international norms and standards.
