In July 2007 the South Australian Guardian for Children and Young People commissioned the Centre for Applied Psychological Research, University of South Australia to conduct a review of programs available to young people in secure custody. The report was completed in January 2008. There had been no independent review of programs in secure custody, although the need to develop youth justice programs was identified by the Families SA Youth Justice Directorate in their 2007 Training Centre Action Plan, the SA Social Inclusion Commissioner, and the SA Parliamentary Select Committee on the Youth Justice System which reported in 2005.
The report is in two sections. Part 1 is a review of the scientific literature on theories and practice in youth justice. Part 2 reports the findings from interviews with a range of stakeholders and focus groups with young residents. Part 2 also contains the recommendations.
Download the literature review
