Preventing youth crime

Why this is important

Youth crime increased in Victoria in 2025, prompting the government to increase bail restrictions and impose adult sentencing on children who commit violent crimes. 

Human rights groups have expressed concern that the changes will send more children to prison. Each person in youth custody costs Victoria $7,775 per day, placing further strain on the state Budget. It is critical to prevent children and young people from entering a cycle of crime and incarceration.

The Youth Crime Prevention Program targets 14 areas of outer Melbourne and regional Victoria with higher levels of youth crime and socioeconomic disadvantage. Since 2016, the government has invested more than $40 million in the program, which it delivers in partnership with local community organisations. 

It is important to understand whether these community-based grants are effectively addressing the causes of youth crime and helping to make Victorian communities safer.

What we plan to examine

We plan to examine if the Youth Crime Prevention Program reduces children and young people's risk of (re)offending and improves community safety.

Who we plan to examine

Department of Justice and Community Safety

Community organisations funded under the Youth Crime Prevention Program

Victoria Police

Further information

The Youth Crime Prevention Program falls within our 'follow the dollar' powers, which allow us to audit private entities receiving government funding.