Victorian youth offenders could be sent to former prison for farm work under Coalition plan ahead of state election

Detailed summary

Young offenders could be sent to a former Victorian prison to undertake farm work, household chores and strict daily routines under a tough new bootcamp promised by the Liberal…

Young offenders could be sent to a former Victorian prison to undertake farm work, household chores and strict daily routines under a tough new bootcamp promised by the Liberal and Nationals ahead of the state election.

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson has pledged to establish the facility at the former Dhurringile Prison, near Murchison about 165km north of Melbourne, if the Coalition wins government on November 28.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Boot camps proposed to combat Victoria youth crime

The program would target offenders aged between 14 and 17, with courts given the power to order them into the new in-house facility.

Those sent to the bootcamp would be expected to follow a strict daily routine, including farm work, cooking, cleaning and doing their own laundry.

They would also take part in education programs, with the Coalition saying the initiative would teach young offenders discipline, respect and practical skills.

“Under Labor, young offenders feel there are no consequences – that must change,” Wilson said.

“Our tough new bootcamps will instil the discipline and respect lacking in so many young offenders and give them the skills they need to get on the right path.

“Only my Liberal and Nationals team has a plan to end Labor’s crime crisis and keep Victorians safe.”

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