smh.com.au
Australia: Contradictory Laws on Youth Justice and Social Media
Queensland's new laws allow 10-year-olds to face adult sentencing for certain crimes, despite overcrowding in youth detention and conflicting with international standards; this occurs alongside a federal ban on under-16s using social media, raising questions about inconsistent treatment of youth.
English
Australia
Abc (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)Queensland's GovernmentLabor GovernmentGreens
Deb FrecklingtonAnthony AlbaneseDavid CrisafulliJulia GillardKevin RuddSean Kelly
- How do Queensland's new laws sentencing 10-year-olds as adults impact Australia's youth justice system and human rights standards?
- Queensland's new laws allow 10-year-olds to be sentenced as adults for specific crimes, impacting youth detention centers already overcrowded. This contrasts with a federal law banning children under 16 from social media.
- What evidence supports the social media ban for children under 16, and how does this compare to the evidence behind the changes in youth crime legislation?
- These contradictory laws, seemingly driven by public perception rather than evidence, raise concerns about Australia's approach to youth justice and online safety. Youth crime is at historic lows, yet harsh penalties are implemented, potentially worsening the situation. The social media ban also lacks strong evidence supporting its effectiveness.
- What are the potential long-term societal and political consequences of Australia's current legislative approach to youth justice, online safety, and migration, given the apparent influence of public perception?
- The government's assertive actions in passing various bills, while abandoning others due to potential backlash, highlight a complex political landscape. This tension between decisive governance and public sentiment raises concerns about the long-term consequences of reactive policy-making based on perceived public "vibes". The increasingly punitive approach to children and migrants suggests a broader societal shift towards harsher treatment of vulnerable groups.