Jason Wood (La Trobe, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Community Safety, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Youth crime is out of control under Labor, with no consequences for violent crimes. Labor's way of weak bail laws and raising the age of criminal responsibility makes the problem worse. Instead of stringent bail laws, Labor allows violent youth to receive multiple bails for serious crimes. A Dutton-led government would work with the states to deliver strong laws and tackle knife crime. Under Labor, youth gangs post assault videos on social media. A Dutton-led government would punish those posting these videos, removing their criminal glory.

Early intervention is crucial to prevent young people from engaging in crime, yet Prime Minister Albanese cut $50 million from high-risk-youth programs, leaving kids and families helpless. For example, Labor cut the funding for regional youth support services in Gosford, New South Wales which helped 3,000 young people and achieved a 25 per cent reduction in crime and an 85 per cent reduction in recidivism. Former member for Robertson Lucy Wicks initiated this program. Now it has been cut, but well done to Lucy, who's standing up for the people of Robertson to have this program recommitted. Under the Liberals, we committed $120 million. This Prime Minister should be condemned for allowing youth crime to go untouched across the nation. (Time expired)

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