Cyrus, a 17-year-old who recently exited the Northern Territory's youth justice system, shared experiences that reflect systemic issues affecting young detainees.

Having spent six years in detention, Cyrus described a harsh reality where he and others were subjected to treatment akin to adults.

He noted significant changes in the system since 2020, emphasizing increased severity in the treatment of youths within detention facilities.

At the age of 12, Cyrus faced a culture where mistakes led to immediate punitive measures from staff.

He recounted instances of being denied basic necessities, such as drinking water, reporting that he was told to drink from the toilet.

These experiences highlight what many youths in the system report as ‘inhumane conditions,’ particularly in older facilities where access to drinking water is limited and hygiene compromised.

The Northern Territory Department of Corrections contends that newer facilities provide 24-hour access to drinking water and feature separated toilets and sinks.

However, reports from former detainees suggest otherwise, indicating overcrowded facilities with little regard for the health and safety of the youths.

Shahleena Musk, the Northern Territory Children’s Commissioner, acknowledged these distressing accounts, which echo testimonies gathered during the 2016 Don Dale Royal Commission.

This commission was a response to revelations of abuse within the juvenile justice system, including the use of tear gas and physical restraints.

The commission called for reforms focusing on therapeutic rehabilitation.

In April 2023, a complaint was submitted to the United Nations, alleging systemic racial discrimination and human rights violations within Australia’s youth justice policies targeting children as young as ten.

Advocacy groups have expressed concern that recent legislative changes in the Northern Territory represent a regression in youth justice, with adverse effects reported among Aboriginal children, who constitute a disproportionate percentage of detainees.

Statistics reflect the troubling reality: the Northern Territory has the highest youth detention rate in Australia, with 94% to 100% of these children being Aboriginal.

Reports indicate that these children are facing longer remand times, with a total prison population that has reached 2,811, 90% of whom identify as Aboriginal.

In response, Deputy Chief Minister Gerard Maley asserted the government's commitment to law and order policies, which he claims voters endorsed.

As part of their strategy, the Northern Territory Government proposed a $15 million youth boot camp initiative and other accountability programs aimed at improving the situation.

However, Commissioner Musk raised concerns over the defunding of effective community-led programs, such as 'Back On Track,' that were designed to aid at-risk youths.

The Community Youth Diversion program, intended to divert young individuals away from formal justice processes, is reportedly undergoing redesign, which raises further concerns regarding its future effectiveness.

In February, a Senate Inquiry highlighted critical gaps in Australia’s youth justice system, urging federal leaders to prioritize reform.

Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, emphasized the need for a coordinated national approach to address systemic failures affecting Indigenous children.

She advocated for collaboration with community organizations to develop comprehensive solutions to the ongoing crisis.

Given the persistent nature of these issues, local leaders and advocates continue to call for urgent action to rectify the conditions faced by children within the youth justice system of the Northern Territory.