The evolution of youth justice conferencing in Queensland, 1990–2021

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper provides a summary history and critique of the development and implementation of restorative justice in the Queensland youth justice system through an analysis of official data and documentary sources. The paper focuses on policy changes, including government responses to program reviews, issues regarding the availability of conferencing, connections between conferencing and prevention and program transparency and accountability. The study provides several important lessons applicable across jurisdictions. The main finding was that conferencing in Queensland remains substantially underutilised. This was associated in large part with the discretionary gatekeeping role of police, the absence of a systematic and comprehensive consultation process with victims and accused persons and governments ignoring the science of restorative justice. In terms of prevention, the study identifies the need for a more integrated approach involving conferencing, risk assessments and the post-conference supervision and welfare needs of offenders.