This interim report summarises evidence and identities key issues from an inquiry into Australia’s youth justice and incarceration system. The report makes two recommendations.

Key findings

• Strong evidence received from a range of key stakeholders highlighted that Australia’s youth justice system is in crisis.
• Disturbing evidence was received that disadvantaged and vulnerable children and young people entering the system are being held in detention (sentenced/unsentenced) without adequate and appropriate supports.
• Serious concerns have been raised that the human rights of children, including rights arising under international human rights treaties to which Australia is a signatory, are being breached. 

Recommendations

1. The Senate continues to pursue an inquiry into the incarceration of children in Australia given the significant and disturbing evidence received.
2. Consider to refer to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs References an inquiry into Australia’s child justice and detention system, with particular reference to the Commonwealth’s responsibilities as they relate to:
   • the incarceration of children, including the disproportionate incarceration of First Nations children
   • compliance with international obligations relating to the detention of children
   • responding to the recommendations of the National Children’s Commissioner’s report entitled ‘Help way earlier!’: How Australia can transform child justice to improve safety and wellbeing
   • any other related matter.