Restorative Justice (RJ) is a way for the people most affected by a crime - the victim, their family and friends and the offender and their family and friends to talk about:
The ACT Restorative Justice Unit’s (RJU) primary objective is to provide restorative justice to members of the ACT community who have been affected by an offence in a forum that provides:
The RJU operates according to the Crimes (Restorative Justice) Act 2004 and has been in operation since 31 January 2005. Criminal justice agencies can make referrals to restorative justice at various points in the criminal justice process. Participation in RJ is voluntary.
Phase 3 – Family Violence and Sexual Offences
The final phase of the scheme commenced on 1 November 2018, providing for the inclusion of referrals for family violence and sexual offences.
The ACT Restorative Justice scheme is a victim-centred response which prioritises the safety and interests of people who have been impacted by crime. RJ participants and processes are carefully assessed by convenors in order to facilitate a restorative process which addresses the unique needs of all participants. The RJU will work with ACT justice agencies and community organisations to ensure that safety assessment and planning is prioritised, recognising the dynamics and complexities of family violence and sexual offences.
RJ conferencing can only proceed if it is safe to do so and meets the needs of the victim of crime. The person responsible for the offence must show a willingness to accept responsibility for having caused harm and agree to be actively involved in making amends that is within their capacity to achieve. In family violence and sexual offence referrals, professional supporters will assist participants to be emotionally and psychologically prepared for the RJ process.
The ACT Government has released an information paper on double jeopardy reform to be progressed
The Needle and Syringe Program Working Group has been established to develop model(s) for a
The Justice and Community Safety Directorate is consulting on the recommendations of the ‘Review of
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