Currently, there is no unified approach across states and territories regarding youth justice, resulting in inconsistency in legislation, policies and practices across Australia. The lack of federal direction in this area directly impacts the futures of young people and their engagement within communities and the youth justice system.

The National Youth Justice Forum will address the youth justice crisis by assessing the causes of youth crime and developing practical strategies for community-led diversion and early-intervention practices. This event will include Indigenous and youth voices to co-design systemic change and address the on-going impacts of intergenerational trauma on families and communities. It will improve wrap-around and holistic services approaches for prevention and strategise against recidivism through social reinvestment opportunities. The forums’ co-location with The National Child Protection Forum will address intersecting issues of child safety and foster cross sector communication. Additionally, The National Youth Justice Forum will support grass roots and Indigenous organisations by developing grant application and reporting skills. Overall, the focus of the National Youth Justice Forum is to protect young people by ensuring their futures by diverting them from the youth justice system and reoffence.