Next steps to reduce criminalisation of young people in residential care

15 November 2023
residential care
Young people in residential care are at increased risk of coming into contact with police and the criminal justice system. The Framework to reduce criminalisation of young people in residential care (the framework) aims to reduce this.

The Framework aims to reduce the unnecessary and inappropriate contact of young people in residential care with the criminal justice system and includes: 

  • guiding principles that reinforce trauma-informed responses, connection to culture and positive behaviour approaches.
  • a decision-making guide to help residential care workers decide if they need a police response.
  • extra guidance for police when responding to incidents in the home.
  • key roles and responsibilities of Victorian government departments, Victoria Police and residential care providers to deliver improved responses to young people in residential care. 

To view the framework, visit A Framework to reduce criminalisation of young people in residential care.

For more information, email Care Services at: theframework@dffh.vic.gov.au