Youth Justice Advisory Committee annual report 2008-2009

The YJAC is focused on improving the effectiveness of the youth justice system in the NT particularly with respect to crime prevention initiatives and the rehabilitation of young offenders. Despite the fact that YJAC has only had two face to face meetings in 2009 it is apparent that YJAC will play a lead role on youth justice issues including addressing risk factors which may be linked to offending behaviour.The Youth Justice Act commenced on 1 August 2006. Part 13 of the Youth Justice Act (2006) provides for the establishment of the Youth Justice Advisory Committee (YJAC). On 1 July 2008, responsibility for the Youth Justice Act (except Part 3 and provisions relating to juvenile detention) was transferred from the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, Department of Justice to the Minister for Children and Families, Department of Health and Families. The Youth Services Branch, Department of Health and Families is responsible for providing Administrative and Secretariat support to the YJAC