The site of Queensland’s first-of-its-kind Youth Justice School has today been confirmed by the State Government.
The Government announced the ‘Ohana Academy’ will be based at Logan Central and is one of two new youth justice schools to be delivered by Ohana for Youth, as part of a $40 million investment to deliver specialised schools that divert youth from crime.
The second site will be based in Cairns, with the schools designed for high-risk teenagers aged 12 to 17 years old, who are on youth justice orders, including community service orders, police cautions, diversions or bail.
The Youth Justice Schools will deliver highly specialised behavioural reform with individual case management, mentoring, family support and parental coaching to help re-engage youth with education, employment and the community.
The program includes intensive supervision for up to 12 hours a day, 5 days a week, and a project-based curriculum with specialist teachers and extracurricular activities.
Premier, David Crisafulli said Youth Justice Schools were a critical step to making Queensland safer and reducing victims of crime.
“With stronger laws, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation we will start to restore safety where you live after the Youth Crime Crisis,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Fewer serious repeat offenders means fewer victims of crime and a safer Queensland.
“Reducing victim numbers shows we’re on the right track and we’ll continue to deliver the fresh start we promised, to make Queensland safer.”
The Logan Youth Justice School is expected to take referrals and commence enrolments in the second half of this year, subject to national accreditation approvals.
“These schools will offer a specialised education curriculum in a structured, disciplined environment for high-risk teenagers on youth justice orders to divert them from crime,” said Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, Laura Gerber.
Founder of Ohana for Youth, Aaron Devine said the pilot represents a practical investment in long-term change for young people and communities.
“When young people are supported to re-engage in education, build skills, and reconnect with positive pathways, the benefits flow through to families, communities and community safety,” Mr Devine said.
