Comparisons between the youth and adult justice systems: 2014–15

In all states and territories, young people aged 10 and over can be charged with a criminal offence. Separate justice systems exist for young people and adults, each with specific legislation. In most cases, the upper age limit in the youth justice system is 17 at the time of the offence (16 in Queensland). Some young people aged 18 and over are under youth justice supervision—reasons include their age at the time of the offence, continuation of their supervision once they turn 18, and their vulnerability or immaturity.&nbsp