Last week 95% of kids in NT youth detention identified as First Nations – a record number of First Nations youth held in detention since 2016/17 in the Territory.⁠⁠

On 30 July 2025 the Northern Territory government passed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 2005 – this includes reinstating spit hoods in youth detention.

It also follows the lowering of the age of criminal responsibility from 12 to 10 years of age in the NT.

With the NT government recycling harsh policies and powers, youth justice officers will have the ability to use:

• Spit hoods⁠
• Security dogs against youth detainees⁠
• ‘Reasonable force’ to ‘maintain safety and prevent escapes’

⁠⁠This makes the NT the only jurisdiction across the continent to use spit hoods on young people – starting at 10 years old.⁠⁠

Nyikina and Wakaya woman and Common Ground Chief Operating Officer Katena Valastro shared reflections on the importance of preventative action and alternative pathways for First Nations kids.⁠⁠

Our kids are our future storytellers, there is evidence that shows alternative pathways and preventative action hold more positive impact for First Nations kids, and reduces crime.

–  Katena Valastro, Nyikina and Wakaya

Community members, land councils, advocacy groups and experts, including 45 paediatricians, have called on the NT government to withdraw amendments to the Youth Justice Act.

However the NT government defends their decision including reinstating spit hoods in youth detention across the Territory.

We stand in solidarity with community who have been affected and those that are advocating on this matter.

Change needs to happen.⁠

⁠Follow @justice.not.jails to find out more and stay up to date.⁠