Youth Justice, a team within the Department of Human Services, is partnering with researchers from the University of Adelaide, led by Dr Catia Malvaso, to review and strengthen its current Case Management Model, with a particular focus on the capacity to integrate a more culturally safe and trauma informed approach to assessment and case planning.

The case management of young people entering the youth justice system is a vital process that supports their future success. Staff work with the young person to develop a client-centred case plan based on their goals, family inclusive approaches, cultural engagement and partnerships with community based agencies.

Closing the gap and reducing the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children and young people in the criminal justice system is a long-standing commitment of the Department. The development of the new Case Management Model will involve consultation with those from First Nations cultures.

The research team will make recommendations to strengthen the current case management model based on the latest research evidence, as well as through consultation with key stakeholders, to support Youth Justice staff in their efforts to improve community safety, reduce re-offending and support reintegration.

The researchers will work closely with Youth Justice staff across the agency and external stakeholders to ensure recommendations are underpinned by practice-based wisdom, cultural expertise, the views of young people, and the latest research evidence.

This work builds on a decade long trusted partnership with the University of Adelaide that has resulted in a deep understanding of the needs of young people, their patterns of contact with the youth justice system and key adjacent agencies, such as the Department of Child Protection, and a fundamental shift to a supportive, trauma-informed approach.