Partnering with First Nations peoples

The Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support is committed to partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to ensure victim support services and youth justice programs are culturally safe, inclusive, and effective.

We recognise the unique strengths, knowledge, and cultural heritage of First Nations communities and value their contribution in shaping programs that support victims of crime and create lasting, positive outcomes for youths.

We work collaboratively with First Nations individuals, families, and communities to develop community-led initiatives that reflect cultural values and reduce the number of victims of crime and the overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the justice system.

Investment in First Nations organisations

The department is committed to building strong, sustainable partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations by supporting their capacity to deliver culturally safe, community-led services for victims of crime and youth in contact with the youth justice system.

We recognise the deep connections these organisations have with their communities and the unique strengths they bring in addressing complex social, economic, and cultural challenges.

By investing in First Nations organisations, we aim to empower local leadership and ensure services meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims of crime, youths, families and communities.

As of November 2025, 38 per cent of outsourced service delivery funding supports First Nations-led organisations, providing 40 per cent of services to at-risk youth.