NSW Coalition pledges tougher youth crime penalties

The NSW Coalition has pledged to introduce tougher penalties for young offenders within 100 days of winning the March state election. The proposal, centered on an ‘adult crime, adult time’ approach, aims to expand the list of serious indictable offences that allow juveniles to face adult sentences.

Opposition leader Kellie Sloane stated that while supporting young people is a priority, those committing serious crimes must face serious consequences. The proposed reforms include creating new sentencing principles that prioritize victim impact over the age of the offender and ensuring detention is not treated as a last resort. The Coalition also plans to target those who recruit children for criminal activities.

These measures follow recent gangland killings and crime-linked public shootings. The Coalition's plan includes increased funding for the Community Safety Investment Fund and expanded investment in youth diversion, such as school suspension and post-detention rehabilitation programs.