Naming young offenders: Implications of research for reform

Recently it was reported that Queensland’s Liberal National Party Government is considering proposing amendments to the State’s juvenile justice legislation to expand the ability to name recidivist young offenders. This article suggests that such a proposal does not align with the evidence regarding juvenile development and offending, and will be ineffective as a deterrent, as well as increasing stigmatising potential. The article considers whether the provisions on naming in other States and Territories are better aligned with the available evidence. It concludes that the approach taken in the majority of jurisdictions, which rests on a presumption against naming, should be considered best practice.