Youth Justice Worker overview
Youth Justice Workers support young people who have come into contact with the justice system. Their role is to reduce reoffending and support rehabilitation by developing case plans, coordinating services, and building positive relationships. They work closely with families, community organisations, and other professionals to support young people to make lasting, positive changes.
Career guide for working as a Youth Justice Worker
A Youth Justice Worker is also called...
Depending on the setting, Youth Justice Workers may also be known as:
- Youth Case Manager
- Youth Justice Officer
- Youth Rehabilitation Worker
- Court Liaison Officer
- Custodial Youth Worker
What are Youth Justice Workers trained to do?
They’re trained to assess risks and needs, support behaviour change, develop case plans, and work within legal and ethical frameworks to help young people move forward with their lives.
Who do Youth Justice Workers help?
They support young people typically aged 10–25 who are in contact with the criminal justice system — whether through court orders, community-based supervision, or custodial settings.
Where do Youth Justice Workers work?
- Youth justice centres and custodial facilities
- Government departments of justice or corrections
- Community-based supervision programs
- Court liaison and diversion programs
- Specialist Aboriginal and multicultural youth services
Skills needed to be a Youth Justice Worker
Youth justice workers need strong communication and negotiation skills, emotional resilience, and an ability to build trust with vulnerable or high-risk young people.
Qualifications needed to be a Youth Justice Worker
To enter this field, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in youth justice, criminology, social work, psychology, or community and human services. Some states accept a Diploma of Community Services or Youth Work with experience. Government-specific training is often required after recruitment.
Bachelor of Human Services/Bachelor of Justice – Double Degree
Diploma of Community Services (Children, Youth & Families)
Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Access online resources
Explore a range of guides, factsheets, tools, and research to help you understand case management and grow your career in community work.