The Public Health Association of Australia said the NT Royal Commission report identifies a number of  health priorities for what is a highly vulnerable and often forgotten group of young people.

“We applaud the Commissioners for taking into account the overwhelming evidence presented, and for boldly making clear recommendations for reform,”PHAA  Professor Stuart Kinner said.

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PHAA CEO Michael Moore said the report was a vital step to ensuring children receive a high level of protection while they are in the care of the Territory’s detention facilities

 “The recommendations to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 years to 12 years and to establish a Children’s Court for youth justice and child protection hearings are particularly important,” Mr Moore said. 

“These changes allow for greater recognition and attention to the vulnerability and unique circumstances of the children and adolescents in these systems.

“It is critical that the use of harsh disciplinary techniques such as restraint chairs and spit hoods are completely prohibited.

“The Commission is one way to ensure these extreme human rights violations, which are in direct contravention to Australia’s agreement to international human rights codes, never occur in our detention facilities again.”

The report details other breaches of fundamental human rights, including withholding access to water, food and toilets.

It confirmed suffering endured by children and adolescents involved would likely lead to lasting psychological damage in some cases. 

According to Professor Kinner, “Given the complex health needs of many young people in detention, the PHAA is encouraged to see recommendations for comprehensive initial health risk assessments and monthly medical checks, to ensure that the health needs of these young people are identified and addressed in a timely manner.

“We also strongly support the call for the Commonwealth Minister for Health to put an end to the discriminatory policy whereby young people in detention are excluded from Medicare and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidies. Young people in detention are entitled to healthcare equivalent to that available in the community. Improving the health of these young people – among the most vulnerable in our communities – will ultimately benefit public health,” Professor Kinner said.