In a bid to curb youth reoffending rates, the Victorian Government has unveiled plans for a significant reform in the youth justice system. 

The Allan government says its new reforms follow the introduction of a legislative framework that seeks to decrease reoffending and enhance safety across communities.

Despite Victoria boasting one of the lowest youth offending rates in Australia, Victoria Police has pinpointed a small contingent of repeat offenders responsible for a surge in serious crimes committed by young individuals. 

In response, the Government has proposed a trial for electronic monitoring to ensure adherence to bail conditions, providing a mechanism for early intervention and redirection of youth towards constructive paths.

The trial will empower courts to mandate electronic monitoring for young individuals charged with offences as part of their bail prerequisites. 

This technology is intended as both a surveillance tool and a deterrent.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes says the trial will both ensure bail compliance and offer a chance for youth to integrate positively into society. 

The proposal has received mixed reactions, with the Police Association labelling it a “sensible and pragmatic” measure. 

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service and the Human Rights Law Centre have criticised the approach, saying it has the potential to infringe on liberties without proven guilt, and noting its failure to address the root causes of youth crime.

The state says the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to revamp the youth justice system, with over $2 billion invested since 2014 towards this goal. 

The forthcoming Youth Justice Bill is expected to pave the way for raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 12, amid ongoing discussions about extending this age to 14 in line with previous commitments.