The proceedings of the Australian Institute of Criminology conference on the prevention of juvenile crime held in July 1989 are presented.
The main contention of the conference was that the prevention of juvenile crime will occur when the young offenders are shown that society cares and when they are presented with responsibility and challenges. The socially disadvantaged in particular need special care and attention. Several innovative programs which have proven efficient in different parts of Australia are described, especially employment programs, leisure activities, and community based programs. The criminal justice system is examined and alternative approaches to institutionalization and rehabilitation of young offenders are considered. Other topics addressed are police and social workers cooperation, juvenile justice reform, outdoor adventure programs, graffiti projects, the special needs of aboriginal youth, and youth advocacy.