A team of police and youth justice workers in Brisbane’s northern suburbs have engaged more than 1,500 times with young people since its ‘co-responder team’ program began a year ago.
Minister for children and youth justice Leanne Linard emphasised the focus of the team was on preventing anti-social behaviour, not ‘waiting for crime to occur’.
“For the past year, the team has been working with young people,” said Linard, “Referring them to support services for issues like alcohol and drug abuse or domestic violence, and diverting them away from potential criminal behaviour.
“We now have eight co-responder teams working across Queensland connecting and communicating with young people to prevent crime or anti-social behaviour.”
With 10% of young offenders committing 40% of youth crime, member for Aspley Bart Mellish said that statistic proved why the response teams were important.
“Police and youth justice workers can engage with young people in their homes, on the street, at the local park or shopping centre, so they don’t have to meet them in the courthouse or the watchhouse.
“By supporting young people to re-engage in education or work, access support services and make better choices, we can make a difference in the lives of young Queenslanders,” said Mellish.
The initiative operates in Townsville, Cairns, Moreton, Rockhampton, Logan, Mackay, Brisbane North, and the Gold Coast.
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