THE ACT Legislative Assembly has today passed legislation to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 from mid-2025. The government describes it as an “Australian first”. 

The Justice (Age of Criminal Responsibility) Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 will initially raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12 on commencement – and then to 14 from July 1 2025.

The government says: “The reforms will ensure a child or young person who engages in harmful behaviour is diverted away from the criminal justice system and provided with the therapeutic supports they need to address the underlying causes of their conduct and enable them to change their life trajectory.”

“Children in our community, especially those engaging in harmful behaviour, need our care and attention, not to be locked away in prison,” says Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury.

“I’m grateful to the many passionate people around the ACT and Australia who have helped make this reform possible, especially First Nations campaigners who have championed the need for this reform.

“Raising the age to 12 then 14 will bring the ACT into line with international standards, uphold our human rights obligations, and support positive and just outcomes for both vulnerable young people and the wider ACT community.”