We’re proud to introduce Young Women’s Voices: Reducing young women’s offending through improved service delivery in human services and the Youth Justice System, a landmark report from Anglicare partner organisations, supported by the Australian Research Council.

This research shines a light on the experiences of young women—particularly Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young women—within systems originally designed for young men. Through powerful micro-narratives and innovative data collection, the report explores how youth justice and community services can better support young women to live thriving, offence-free lives.

The findings are clear: young women need services that are gender-responsive, culturally safe, and trauma-informed. They need to be heard, understood, and supported in ways that reflect their realities.

As one young woman shared:

          “Kids who live in the system are often treated with disrespect and when feelings are expressed they are                    often dismissed.”

This report is a call to action for policymakers, service providers, and communities to re-imagine how we design and deliver support for young women. It’s time to listen—and act.

Click to read the FULL REPORT.