Why Victoria's youth crime laws won't work
Nov 18, 2025 •
Last week, the Victorian government stunned even its own MPs – announcing laws that will allow children as young as 14 to be tried in adult courts and face life sentences.
The proposal was rushed into Cabinet with no warning – ministers were given just minutes to read it before the meeting began.
Only a year ago, Labor promised to raise the age of criminal responsibility. Now, in response to tabloid outcry, it’s taken a sharp turn – following Queensland and adopting ‘adult time for adult crime’.
Today, CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, Nerita Waight, on how the Premier’s new laws could devastate vulnerable kids – and what it says about the kind of state Victoria is becoming in a time of Treaty.
Daniel James has worked with the First People's Assembly of Victoria and the Victorian government on Treaty-related matters.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Why Victoria's youth crime laws won't work
1728 • Nov 18, 2025
Why Victoria's youth crime laws won't work
Last week, the Victorian government stunned even its own MPs – announcing laws that will allow children as young as 14 to be tried in adult courts and face life sentences.
The proposal was rushed into Cabinet with no warning – ministers were given just minutes to read it before the meeting began.
Only a year ago, Labor promised to raise the age of criminal responsibility. Now, in response to tabloid outcry, it’s taken a sharp turn – following Queensland and adopting ‘adult time for adult crime’.
Today, CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, Nerita Waight, on how the Premier’s new laws could devastate vulnerable kids – and what it says about the kind of state Victoria is becoming in a time of Treaty.
Daniel James has worked with the First People's Assembly of Victoria and the Victorian government on Treaty-related matters.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, Nerita Waight
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Ruby Jones, Sarah McVeigh, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
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