Good Practice in Community-based Supervision of Aboriginal Youth Offenders

While it has been recognised for some time that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people are significantly over-represented among youth justice populations, there is a dearth of research examining the elements of effective supervision for this group. This article presents the initial findings of a research project based on a partnership between Monash University and Juvenile Justice, New South Wales. Two focus groups were conducted, the first with five members and the second with six members of the Juvenile Justice Aboriginal Strategic Advisory Committee, with a view to identifying elements of good practice in the supervision of Aboriginal youth justice clients. A set of good practice principles was developed, which encompassed five main themes: culturally-informed communication, valuing Aboriginal knowledge, the importance of the working relationship, the significance of family, and highlighting strengths and achievements.