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14-Oct-2025 | Justice Programs

Celebrating Australasian Youth Justice Acknowledgement Day

Every day, our Youth Justice staff go above and beyond to walk alongside young people, helping them to make better choices, reconnect with their communities, and create brighter futures. Their professionalism, resilience and compassion make a real and lasting difference.

On Australasian Youth Justice Acknowledgement Day, we celebrate and recognise the incredible dedication and impact of those who work in Youth Justice across Australia and New Zealand.

In the lead-up to this important day, we spoke with some of our Youth Justice staff to discuss their experiences as youth justice workers.

From Erin (Youth Justice Worker):

“Working in Youth Justice is something I find both incredibly rewarding and deeply meaningful. No two days are ever the same, and each day brings new opportunities to connect with young people, build trust, and walk alongside them as they navigate complex systems and challenges. The most fulfilling part of my work is seeing young people grow, learn, and begin to believe in themselves again. Building those relationships, where trust and understanding develop over time, is truly at the heart of what we do."

"Of course, the work can be challenging at times, but I’m grateful to be surrounded by an amazing team who keep me grounded and supported. Their compassion, patience, and resilience inspire me every day, and they are the driving force behind the meaningful outcomes we achieve together. I’m passionate about helping young people find hope, stability, and a sense of purpose for their future. It’s a privilege to be in a role where I can stand beside them through their journey and see their strength and potential shine through.”

From Jess (Youth Justice Worker):

“I have now been working in SYC Youth Justice Program for almost four years, and it has been an amazing journey. I have the opportunity to work alongside incredible young people every day and learn more about their world. Working in Youth Justice gives you a different perspective, it opens your mind to society’s complexities that you wouldn’t be exposed to otherwise. I’m grateful for the young people that trust me with their stories, and for my amazing team that is always here to support me.”

From Emily (Manager – Justice Services):

“I’m grateful every single day to come to work with this team. They are a community of people who show up with heart, care, and professionalism no matter how complex things get. It takes patience, empathy, and the ability to stay grounded in moments that are anything but. Yet time and time again, they bring warmth, creativity and humour to even the most challenging situations. It is not easy and it does not go unnoticed.”

“I’m deeply grateful for the young people we walk alongside. Their courage, honesty, and wisdom guide our path and remind us why we do what we do.”

“It is never lost on me the privilege that it is to be so involved in young people's lives. To be there on their best and worst days, to be trusted by them, and to be able to support them and make meaningful change.”

We thank our Youth Justice team for walking alongside young people every day and for their wider efforts in the community, continuously advocating, fundraising and helping build a strong network of care and support.

Their incredible dedication makes a real difference and the young people they support serve as a constant reminder of why this work is so important.

To learn more about SYC’s Youth Justice programs, click here.