Punishing kids doesn’t make anyone safer – Paediatricians caution QLD Government against solutions that will backfire

5 December 2024

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) has cautioned the Queensland Government against implementing punitive criminal justice reforms targeting vulnerable children.

The RACP has consistently argued that it is inappropriate for children under 14 years of age to be in the criminal justice system. 

Prof Nitin Kapur, President of the RACP’s Paediatric and Child Health Division, is concerned the Making Queensland Safer Bill will significantly worsen health outcomes for children across Queensland.

Moreover, it is likely to worsen the overrepresentation of First Nations children in detention, deepening psychological, social, and cultural harm, and perpetuating trauma and disconnection from their communities.

“We are keen to work with the Queensland Government to address the challenges our children face today but are extremely concerned that the Government's approach will set back developmental and social outcomes for vulnerable members of a generation of children.

“As child health experts, we have repeatedly warned that detaining children does not address the main causes of anti-social behaviour.

“A large proportion of children who come into contact with the criminal justice system have underlying developmental issues and complex needs.

“We need to provide these children with culturally appropriate support, health care, education, and help them foster more positive behaviours.

“What these children need is medical, psychological and social support to help address the challenges they face.

“Only a health-first approach to youth justice will help deliver the long-term positive outcomes that help ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Queenslanders.

"We strongly urge the Queensland Government to work with child health experts to develop reforms that truly serve our community,” Prof Kapur said.

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