Northern Territory Lowers Criminal Responsibility Age to 10, Sparking UN Criticism
The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child claims the NT's new law contravenes international treaty obligations, while local leaders express deep concerns.
- The Northern Territory government passed legislation to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 12 to 10, fulfilling a conservative election promise.
- UN Committee on the Rights of the Child chair Ann Skelton criticized the move as violating Australia's treaty obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child
- Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro argues the law allows for earlier intervention to support troubled youths, despite opposition from Indigenous leaders and human rights advocates.
- Critics, including National Children's Commissioner Anne Hollonds, argue the law will disproportionately affect Indigenous children and exacerbate systemic issues.
- Protests erupted outside NT Parliament, with community leaders calling for rehabilitation programs and warning the law will not enhance public safety.
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